Ashford in the Water Dragonfly Report – October 2023 by Simon Unwin

After a largely disappointing summer for dragonflies, the season ended on a reasonably positive note, with some hot, sunny weather in early October extending the season through to the end of the month.  Five species were observed in flight during October, mostly in low numbers which is to be expected. 

The Common Darter was the most numerous and widespread, with many mating pairs busily laying eggs into the water on even dull days. 

The Migrant Hawker was active well into the month, as were Southern Hawkers.  Only males of these species were observed.

The Black Darter also put in an appearance with two, possibly three males recorded hanging around in the margins of the North Lake at Thornbridge.

The last damselfly to be seen on the wing was the Willow Emerald, with males, females and mating pairs being active into mid-month.  This species is something of a success story.  After recording only a few individuals last year it has become much more numerous this year and has been a common sight around the margins of the North Lake, less so on the South lake.  As it lays its eggs into the bark of overhanging trees, I would not expect to record this species on the smaller ponds on Fin Cop.  It was, however recorded on the River Wye in Monsaldale, in the slow-flowing stretch of water downstream of the viaduct.

I am happy to report that all nineteen species that I have recorded and confirmed at Ashford have been present this year, although the distribution and numbers have changed somewhat.  The new species recorded last year for the first time, Willow Emerald and Small Red-eyed Damselflies have established themselves, while the Common Emerald and Blue-tailed Damselflies appear to have become much reduced.  This reflects a national trend in which the changing climate is seeing a spread north and west of some species at the expense of previously established species.  Next summer I will be keeping an eye open for Norfolk Hawkers (almost extinct in Britain just a few years ago) moving into our area!

October Species List                                              
Willow Emerald Damselfly                                             
Migrant Hawker
Southern Hawker
Common Darter
Black Darter