Common Blue Damselfly
Enallagma cyathigerum
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Common Blue Damselfly is Britain's most abundant blue damselfly — and can be extremely numerous at dune slack ponds. It prefers slightly larger, more open water than the Azure Damselfly. The males are vivid sky-blue with black markings, and paired couples in the 'wheel' position are a common sight over any dune pond in June and July. The 'lollipop' mark on abdominal segment 2 is the key feature separating it from Azure.
At a Glance
| Order | Odonata |
| Family | Coenagrionidae |
| Habitat | Open dune pond · Larger freshwater · Coastal lagoon |
| Diet | Small flying insects |
| UK population | Very common throughout Britain; most abundant blue damselfly |
| Sefton Coast | Abundant at dune slack ponds and Marshside lagoons |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Open dune slack ponds at Ainsdale NNR and Marshside RSPB. Prefers larger, more open water than Azure.
Identification
Bright sky-blue with black markings. Segment 2: thick stalk and round spot ('lollipop' or 'mushroom' shape) — key difference from Azure's U-shape. Female: blue or green, same patterning. More slender than Azure.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Any open dune pond in June–August. Abundant. The 'lollipop' pattern on the second abdominal segment is the key ID feature for separation from Azure Damselfly.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'wheel position' in damselflies?
During mating, male damselflies (and dragonflies) grasp the female behind the head with specialised claspers at the tail tip. The female curves her abdomen forward to the male's secondary genitalia on the underside of his abdomen. This creates the distinctive wheel or heart shape seen when paired damselflies fly or rest together.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.