- Lifespan
- Approximately 2–3 years as an adult; nymphal stage lasts 2–3 years in water
- Size & Weight
- 32–34 mm body length; wingspan 54–60 mm
- Habitat
- Fast-flowing and still freshwater bodies including streams, rivers, lakes, and moorland pools, typically at higher altitudes.
- UK Distribution
- Widespread throughout the UK, particularly common in Scotland, Wales, and northern England; resident species that does not migrate.
- Diet
- Carnivorous; adults hunt small flying insects in flight.
- Prey
- Small flying insects including mosquitoes, midges, gnats, and smaller insects captured mid-air
- Predators
- Birds (particularly dragonfly hawks and hobbies), large spiders, and larger dragonflies
- Mating Season
- July to September
- Breeding
- Females lay eggs in vegetation or moss near water bodies; nymphs develop in water over 2–3 years with multiple instars before emergence as adults.
- Behaviour
- Highly active and aggressive fliers with rapid, darting movements. Males are territorial and patrol stretches of water, often hovering. They are among the fastest dragonflies in the UK, capable of sustained flight even in poor weather.