The sudden surge of spring species remains unconvincing in terms of numbers and indeed numbers of records coming in, but gradually the list of those on the wing is growing. Stephen Barlow has sent in the first records of Four-spotted Chaser this year (left) from Whixall Moss and elsewhere in Woolston Caroline Uff has seen a Broad-bodied Chaser. Azure Damselfly male and females have been seen by Ivan Grove near Market Drayton- the male is shown far below right with very pale colouration due to recent emergence, but still a clear U shape on segment 2 of the abdomen.
On Whixall Moss in general Stephen reports low numbers, but he has seen a number of White-faced Darters now. A recently emerged female is shown below left and an immature male below right. The immature male has similar coloration, but a far more waisted, narrow abdomen and the anal appendages are closer together than in the female. Stephen also saw a mature male and the photograph illustrates the distinct white face and the colouration that has change to red from yellow.
