Invertebrates
Large Red Damselfly
Pyrrhosoma nymphula
On a mild April morning, the first large red damselfly of the year clings to a reed beside a garden pond, its bright red body vivid against the new green growth.
Overview
The large red damselfly, Pyrrhosoma nymphula, is a Least Concern damselfly of ponds, ditches, and slow streams across Europe and into western Asia. Its red-and-black colours and early spring emergence make it one of the first and most familiar signs of the dragonfly season.
The first damselfly of the year
Because it emerges earlier than most of its relatives, the large red damselfly is often the first damselfly seen around a pond each spring.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common.
Large Red Damselfly: common questions
When does the large red damselfly appear?
It is usually the first damselfly to emerge each year, often appearing in April and flying into the summer.
Why does the male hold the female?
The male holds the female behind her head while she lays eggs, guarding her from rival males.
What colours are the females?
Females occur in several forms, some red and black like the male and some yellow and black.
Where is the large red damselfly found?
It lives around ponds, ditches, and slow streams across Europe and into western Asia.