Variable damselfly

[bugmeister]

Coenagrion pulchellum

 

Another blue damselfly and this one was spotted this morning at Wicken Fen.

 

Unfortunately I don't have a decent picture of the female yet

 

Yes, it really is called the variable damselfly and the distinctive marking on this male can clearly be seen. Segment 2 has what is often described as a goblet mark, as compare to the U shape on the Azure, the variable has a 'stem' beneath the cup shape. Also the stripes on the body (thorax) are sometimes interrupted to form an exclamation mark as in this one, although that is not always so clearly separated.

 

 

Lens: Sigma 105mm

 

 

lens:MPE65

[annie]

lovely ...

 

 

must have been difficult today with the windy conditions.

[fuzzyedges]

keep them coming bugs

I am learning so much about the small world

Are the females hard to shoot as every time I got near one she was up and away and I mean away, like over the hedge and in the next field

[bugmeister]

keep them coming bugs

I am learning so much about the small world

Are the females hard to shoot as every time I got near one she was up and away and I mean away, like over the hedge and in the next field

I wouldn't say they are much more camera shy than the males, I didn't see any today apart from as mating pairs but they were too far away for a decent shot.

[fuzzyedges]

Must be the dainty plates of meat stalking them that gives them the flights

Note to self Act like a bush

[JohnP]

Great images... nice to see someone was able to get some bug shots today... no chance here... far too many showers and extremely short lived sunny spells.