The Large Red Damselfly is usually the first Odonata (Damselfly or Dragonfly) to emerge in the spring, often seen as early as March in the UK. It is also the most abundant here in Whiteley Woods and it's not uncommon to see 5 or 6 pairs ovipositing simultaneously, even in our small pond. There are only 2 red Damselfly species in Britain and they are easily distinguished apart from the size difference, by the abundance of black markings on the Large species being absent on the smaller one.

Surrey Whiteley Woods Damselflies Large Red Earliest Species to emerge Common in UK Wildlife in England

This image is available to purchase and is part of our Wildlife in England Stock Photos Collection.