Large Red Damselfly
Pyrrhosoma nymphula
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Large Red Damselfly is often the first damselfly of the year — appearing at dune slack ponds in late April or early May while most other Odonata are still larvae. The male is distinctive: red body with black markings, red eyes. Females are more complex with more extensive black. They're much redder than any other British damselfly. At Ainsdale's ponds in May, the appearance of the first Large Red is a reliable sign that the Odonata season is beginning.
At a Glance
| Order | Odonata |
| Family | Coenagrionidae |
| Habitat | Dune slack pond · Any still or slow freshwater with emergent vegetation |
| Diet | Small flying insects |
| UK population | Common throughout Britain |
| Sefton Coast | Present at dune slack ponds; one of the first Odonata to appear in spring |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Dune slack ponds at Ainsdale NNR in spring — often the first damselfly of the year.
Identification
Vivid red with black markings. Only red damselfly in Britain — unmistakeable. Male brighter red than female. Red eyes. Black legs. Often rests on vegetation near water.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Check dune slack ponds at Ainsdale in late April–early May for the first of the season. The red colour is unmistakeable — no other British damselfly is red.
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 does the Large Red Damselfly emerge earlier than other species?
The Large Red Damselfly overwinters as a larva in a more advanced stage of development than most other species, allowing it to complete metamorphosis and emerge as an adult earlier in spring. Its tolerance of cooler temperatures also allows it to be active earlier. This early emergence reduces competition for food and mating opportunities.
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.