White-legged Damselfly
Platycnemis pennipes

A very attractive and easily distinguishable damselfy with a far paler blue body colouration than that of the Common, Southern or Azure species.

As the name suggests, the white legs make the species easily identifiable as they are not found elsewhere in the damselfy family.

White-legged Damselflies favour narrow slow flowing muddy streams, which they often co-habit with the Beautiful Demoiselle.

Not widespread in the New Forest, yet abundant where populations exist, such as along the Ober Water. Very approachable and quite accommodating for the photographer.

   
locations media gallery

Found in reasonable numbers along the Ober Water, close to the A35.

Female Emperor Photo Female Emperor Photo View movie clip
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seasonal appearance distinguishing features

Males have a very pale blue colouration with a light green tint on the thorax. Females are paler still with an almost white colouration. Both sexes distinguishable by the characteristic white feather like legs that are easily discernable during flight and whilst perched.