Blue Chaser

Libellula fulva Müller, 1764

DESCRIPTION

Middle-sized species with 75-80 mm in wingspan. Females feature a spot on the wing tip, not always so evident in males. At the hindwing base this species has an area never triangular (unlike L. depressa). Females are dark orange (juveniles) and brown (adults). Males have a pale blue abdomen (but the young ones are similar to females).

PHENOLOGY

Flight period ranges mainly from May to June.

HABITAT

It prefers still or slowly flowing sunny waters, with reed beds on the banks and abundant vegetation.

DISTRIBUTION

Its range is fragmented and spreads from France to the Caspian Sea. In the Cuneo region it is uncommon and localized in some suitable wetlands along the Stura river and in hill ponds with rich water vegetation.