Broad-bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa)

Female Broad-bodied Chaser

Often the first 'large' dragonflies of the year to be seen on the wing in the New Forest, Broad-bodied Chasers are present from May until August, but tend to be more conspicuous during the early and middle parts of their flight period.

Females are a striking golden yellow-brown colour with lighter yellow markings along the edge of their fattened abdomens. Males - pale, powder blue creatures with similar yellow abdominal markings - are aggressive, highly territorial insects that can often be seen chasing away rivals and even dragonflies of other species.

Male Broad-bodied Chaser

Wingspan is around 7.5 centimetres, whilst length is 4.5 centimetres. As the name suggests, both sexes are noticeably 'broad-bodied'. Perches - sticks protruding from the water, for example, or fallen branches in the water - are regularly used, so-much-so that excellent views can be obtained by simply identifying a favoured perch and then sitting and waiting for the insect to return.

(Four-spotted Chasers also occur in the New Forest, but tend to be less frequently seen than their broad-bodied cousins, have predominantly dark brown, relatively slender abdomens and two dark spots - rather than one - on each wing. Scarce Chasers are also present, but are infrequently seen - mature individuals are superficially similar in colour and markings to Broad-bodied Chasers, but are marginally smaller and have comparatively slender abdomens without yellow edge markings).

References:
A Guide to the Dragonflies of Great Britain: Dan Powell
Dragonflies and Damselflies of Britain and Northern Europe: Bob Gibbons