Broad-bodied Chaser—Libellula depressa

Distribution: Found throughout Wiltshire in any suitable habitat. It frequents the margins of ponds, lakes and canals and can be found perched on emergent vegetation by garden ponds.

Identification: The male Broad-bodied Chaser can be confused with the Black-tailed Skimmer and Scarce Chaser as both have powder blue abdomens. However, the male broad bodied chaser is a rather more robust creature, it also has a large dark patch at the base of both wings, as well as no black tip to the abdomen. The female also has the same dark patch at the wing base as well as a broad white / yellow antehumeral stripes.

County Status: Widespread and common.