[Adastra] Red-veined Darter

[SARAH PATTON]

A visit to Midhurst Common Pond today produced a fantastic surprise in the form of a male Red-veined Darter. Rather unexpected to say the least! I was looking for Red-tipped Clearwings (2 came to the lure) and had seen a variety of dragons and damsels when a red dragon landed near me. It was a second before I thought 'it's very early for a sympetrum' and then when I looked more closely I could see the red veins. A quick choice between trying to take a macro photo (no chance) and trying to net it. The latter won, but failed. I spent another hour or so trying to relocate it, but with no success.
  This species obviously breeds in Britain now, and with little insect migration recently, I guess this must be a resident.
   
  Nice one!
  Sarah