Common Darter
Sympetrum striolatum
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Common Darter is the most abundant dragonfly of late summer and autumn on the Sefton Coast, and the last to fly as temperatures drop. In October, Common Darters will fly in temperatures where no other dragonfly is active. Males are brownish-red, perching prominently on vegetation and bare ground near water and returning repeatedly to the same perch. They're often found far from water in late summer, basking on paths and warm walls. Their long season — July to November — means they're present on the Sefton Coast for a quarter of the year.
At a Glance
| Order | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae |
| Habitat | Dune slack pond · Coastal ditch · Any freshwater · Also found on heathland far from water |
| Diet | Flying insects — perches and makes short sallies to catch prey |
| UK population | Very common throughout Britain; the most widespread darter |
| Sefton Coast | Abundant throughout the Sefton Coast from July to November |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Dune slack ponds, ditches at Marshside RSPB, any suitable water. Most abundant autumn dragonfly.
Identification
Medium darter. Male: brownish-red (darker and less vivid than Ruddy Darter). Female: yellow-brown. Yellowish streaks along abdomen sides. Yellow legs with black stripes. Perches frequently, returns to same spot.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk any dune area in August–October. Common Darters are everywhere — basking on paths, walls and vegetation. The most frequently encountered dragonfly of late summer.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can Common Darters fly so late in autumn?
Common Darters are cold-tolerant compared to other dragonflies, remaining active at temperatures where Emperor and Brown Hawker have long since disappeared. They can supplement sun-warming by basking on warm surfaces. This extended season allows them to continue breeding until late October in good years — some adults survive into November.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.