Golden Ringed Dragonfly

Cordulegaster boltonii

A medium sized dragonfly with striking black and golden rings along its body length of 70-85mm.

When resting the clear wings, which have a span of between 90- 105mmm, are at 90 degrees to the bo

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Discover more about the Golden Ringed Dragonfly

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When to see

Adults emerge in June and are seen hunting over springs, burns and rivers. They are feeding on smaller flying insects, including damselflies and moths. During bad weather, dragonflies cannot fly or catch food so may starve. In warm conditions, adult may live for several months. The larger females may be seen perched on foliage above the water and extending their long thin abdomen into the water to lay eggs on underwater vegetation.

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Where to see

It is widespread and common with strong populations in the west of Scotland ranging from Galloway to Rannoch Moor. It is extending its range north and is now found in the central Highlands and Inverness.

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Did you know?

The larva’s extending mouthparts was the inspiration for life form in the Alien films.

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Related species

Dragon Fly

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

Adults emerge in June and are seen hunting over springs, burns and rivers. They are feeding on smaller flying insects, including damselflies and moths. During bad weather, dragonflies cannot fly or catch food so may starve. In warm conditions, adult may live for several months. The larger females may be seen perched on foliage above the water and extending their long thin abdomen into the water to lay eggs on underwater vegetation.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

It is widespread and common with strong populations in the west of Scotland ranging from Galloway to Rannoch Moor. It is extending its range north and is now found in the central Highlands and Inverness.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

The larva’s extending mouthparts was the inspiration for life form in the Alien films.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Dragon Fly

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

Adults emerge in June and are seen hunting over springs, burns and rivers. They are feeding on smaller flying insects, including damselflies and moths. During bad weather, dragonflies cannot fly or catch food so may starve. In warm conditions, adult may live for several months. The larger females may be seen perched on foliage above the water and extending their long thin abdomen into the water to lay eggs on underwater vegetation.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

It is widespread and common with strong populations in the west of Scotland ranging from Galloway to Rannoch Moor. It is extending its range north and is now found in the central Highlands and Inverness.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

The larva’s extending mouthparts was the inspiration for life form in the Alien films.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Dragon Fly