Field Guide
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Common Hawker
Aeshna juncea
Not yet photographed by the community
Dark hawker with blue and yellow spots; upland and northern.
Species Profile
Green List; not of conservation concern in the UK and remains relatively abundant
- 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.
- •The Common Hawker is one of the few dragonfly species active during overcast and cool weather conditions
- •Males engage in dramatic aerial combat with rivals, diving and chasing at high speeds across their territory
- •Unlike many dragonflies, they can fly well into autumn and early winter, extending their active season
- •Nymphs are aquatic predators themselves, feeding on small aquatic organisms and fish fry
- •The species gets its name from its hawk-like hunting prowess and aerial maneuverability
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