Taxonomy
Pyrrhosoma nymphula | Large Red Damselfly | Earr-rua an Earraigh
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Ireland: Least Concern
EU: Least Concern
The population is not considered threatened.
Native status
Native
Species Biology
Identification
Length: 3.6cm
Wingspan: 4.8cm
Both sexes have bright, red eyes, a yellow underside of the thorax and a dark brown wing spot. They’re wings have a slight brown tint when immature but become clear when a mature adult. Males are vibrant red with black markings towards the tip of the abdomen. Both sexes have antehumeral marks that resemble an exclamation mark.
Females can exist in several different forms but are mainly distinguished by the amount of black they have on the dorsal surface of their abdomen. Their most common form is a darker version of the male.
Adult habitat & habits
They are not very territorial but can act quite aggressively towards other large red damselflies and also smaller damselflies, sometimes tackling them to the ground.
Habitat
Mainly found in bog pool, small lakes, canals, ditches, drains and streams. They can tolerate mild pollution. Particularly abundant in water-bodies with large quantities of floating vegetation (broad-leaved pondweed).
Flight period
April to August, usually the first species on the wing, (occasionally March and/or September).
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
Very common all throughout Ireland, particularly the south west and north.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.