Orchids, dragonflies and damselflies by Extremadura Turismo

Edition Consejería de Cultura, Turismo y Deportes Dirección General de Turismo Coordination Club Birding in Extremadura Images Orchids: Angel Sánchez García, (all images except those listed below) Fernando Durán Oliva (p. 16 right, p.18 right, p. 20 left, p. 30 right. ) Fermi Martínez Martín (p. 14 left, p. 15 right, p. 19 left, p. 28 right.) José Antonio Mateos Martín (p. 6-7, p. 14 right, p. 17 left, and p. 31 left.) Dragonflies and damselflies: Carlos Tovar Breña “Carpóforo”, (all images except those listed below) Isidro M. Frutos Cuadrado (p. 50 lower, p. 62 upper, p. 63 lower, p. 65 lower, p. 66 lower, p. 73 upper, p. 75 lower, and p.77 upper.) Luis Miguel Pérez Tovar (p. 42 lower, left.) Texts José Antonio Mateos Martín (Orchids) Fernando Durán Oliva (Orchids hábitats) Javier Pérez Gordillo (Dragonflies and damselflies) Design www.laruinagrafica.com Printed Artes gráficas Rejas S.L.

A NEW LOOK AT

EXTREMADURA Because of their beauty, orchids and dragonflies are fascinating to many people who are interested in nature. However, unlike birds, they are much less well known to the public at large. This small guide aims to awaken curiosity, offering yet another reason to go into the field and enjoy the wonders of our surroundings. With such impressive natural resources, it is no surprise that Extremadura is also a paradise for finding these plants and insects. Of the 25 genera and about 90 species of orchids that can be found in the Iberian Peninsula, Extremadura boasts 13 genera. This guide covers the more common species, with a total of 44 species and one variety included. Similarly, with dragonflies, 56 species of the total of 79 present in the Iberian Peninsula have been recorded in Extremadura. If the following pages will help you to discover (and love) an Extremadura that you did not know, then they will have met their objective.

Yellow Bee Orchid (Ophrys lutea Cav.)

ORCHIDS

of Extremadura

INTRODUCTION any way devaluing the ecological value of other plants growing alongside them.

Over the past few years, interest in orchids has increased significantly and they are widely recognised as an attractive part of our natural world. The combinations of colours, their curious forms, their reproductive biology, the copious displays that can be found, the science about them, combined with the publication of a highly accessible reference book (the Guía de orchideas de Extremadura by Chiscano, Gil and Durán) in 1991 as well as information available in Proyecto Orchidea, has converted this family of plants to one of the best known and studied, at least in Extremadura.

The purpose of this small guide is twofold. First, to contribute to making this family of plants more accessible to those unfamiliar with them, giving yet another good reason to go out and enjoy nature. Secondly, to support the interest of those who are already starting their journey with orchids and to ensure continued awareness of the richness of the natural world around us. In both cases, to spread knowledge about a remarkably interesting part of our natural resources, to motivate curiosity and get connected to our rich natural heritage.

For both nature-lovers and photographers (and for those who combine both hobbies) orchids have an incredibly special and unique attraction, without in

ORCHID HABITAT The region of Extremadura, from the point of view of natural vegetation, is the meeting place between Atlantic vegetation (represented by deciduous woodland of Pyrenean oak and sweet chestnut, on higher elevations) and typical Mediterrean vegetation (dominated by evergreen species adapted to summer droughts such as holm oaks, cork oaks and a rich scrub flora, dominated by rock rose and heaths). In terms of soils, acidic terrain is abundant, derived from the presence of rocks such as granite, quarzite and slate, although basic or neutral soils can also be found because of limestone outcrops. The latter are scarce in Cáceres province but rather more extensive in the mountains of Badajoz. Although some orchids do not have soil preferences, many others are more selective, particularly those favouring neutral or basic soils, generally found over limestone, diabases and tertiary sediments.

The orchids in Extremadura form part of the plant community associated with the soils in which they grow, appear mainly in the following habitats:

MEDITERREAN WOODLAND 02 WITH CORK OAK AND HOLM OAK

DRY LIMESTONE SCRUB AND MEADOWS

Frequent in Extremadura, especially in Badajoz, as stages of the degradation of Mediterranean forest and dehesa, appearing as areas with shrubs adapted to the Mediterranean summer drought, with dry meadows in clearings and bare ground on both flat terrain as well as hillsides. In these zones, and especially on basic (high pH) or neutral soils, most of the Anacamptis species (A. pyramidalis, A. coriophora) can be found. Aceras anthropophorum and Himantoglossum robertianum prefer somewhat moister meadows.

Well-conserved habitat on hillsides, with a good canopy of holm oaks, cork oak or Portuguese oak. This habitat offers plenty of leaf litter and humus for orchids of the families Limodorum, Epipactis, Neotinea and some Anacamptis (like A. morio).

MEADOWS IN OPEN 03 WOODLAND AND OPEN COUNTRY With the loss of forest, principally for livestock farming, pasture with grassy hollows are formed, usually with some trees

remaining. In these environments, the predominant orchids are Serapias (such as S. perez-chiscanoi, S. lingua, S. vomeracea, S. cordigera), Anacamptis (such as A. champagneuxii, A.coriophora) as well as some of the Ophrys and Himantoglossum robertianum in more limestone areas.

DECIDUOUS WOODLAND 04 (OAK AND CHESTNUT) This type of woodland dominates large areas of the mountains of the north of Cáceres province, from the Sierra de Gata up to Hervás, the Jerte valley and La Vera. The soil is formed by a layer of mulch rich in rotting leaf litter and humus with shade-loving plants. It is the preferred habitat for species of Cephalanthera, Neottia, Limodorum, Epipactis and some Orchis (O. mascula, O. langei) and Dactylorhiza (D. insularis, D. sulphurea).

DAMP AREAS (EDGES OF 05 STREAMS AND RIVERS, WATERLOGGED AND BOGGY SITES) Some orchids need very moist conditions and prefer to be close to water courses or seasonally wet pasture or boggy sites. These include Anacamptis laxiflora, Spiranthes aestivalis and S. spiralis and some species of Dactylorhiza such as D. elata and D. maculata.

ADVICE AND RECOMMENDATIONS 01

All species are of great value, but in addition there are some with a legally recognised level of protection. To enjoy orchids does not mean, under any circumstances, risking their conservation by manipulating, damaging or collecting specimens. As we walk to look for orchids, it should be done in a careful manner, given that often because of the size of the plant, they can be difficult to locate amongst the foliage of other vegetation. Always respect footpaths, fences and property on our walks.

ORCHIDS

of Extremadura

Aceras

Aceras anthropophorum (L.) W.T. Aiton Anacamptis

Anacamptis collina Banks & Sol. Anacamptis coriophora L. Anacamptis champagneuxii Barn. Anacamptis laxiflora Lam. Anacamptis morio L. subsp. picta (Loisel.) K. Richt. Anacamptis papilionacea L. Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich. Cephalantera

Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. Dactylorhiza

Dactylorhiza elata (Poir.) Soó Dactylorhiza maculata (L.) Soó Dactylorhiza insularis (Sommier) Dactylorhiza sulphurea (Link) Franco Epipactis

Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz subsp. helleborine

ORCHIDS SPECIES LIST

Himantoglossum

Himantoglossum robertianum (Loisel.) Greuter Limodorum

Limodorum abortivum (L.) Sw. Limodorum trabutianum Batt. Neotinea

Neotinea conica (Willd). Neotinea maculata (Desf.) Stearn Neottia

Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich. Ophrys Ophrys apifera Huds. Ophrys apifera var. almaracensis Pérez-Chisc., F. Durán & J.R. Ophrys bombyliflora Link Ophrys dyris Maire Ophrys fusca Link Ophrys incubacea Bianca Ophrys lutea Cav. Ophrys scolopax Cav. Ophrys speculum Link

Ophrys tenthredinifera Willd. Orchis Orchis italica Poiret Orchis langei K. Richt. Orchis mascula L. Serapias

Serapias cordigera L. Serapias lingua L. Serapias parviflora Parl. Serapias perez-chiscanoi Acedo Serapias vomeracea (Burm. fil.) Briq. Spiranthes

Spiranthes aestivalis (Poir.) Rich. Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Cheval

Translator’s note : English names for species have been taken mainly from The Field Guide to the Orchids of Europe and the Mediterranean (2019) by Kühm, R., Pedersen. H & Cribb, P. and Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Western Mediterranean (2016) by Thorogood, C.

Aceras

Anacamptis JAN

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Man Orchid

Fan-lipped Orchid

Aceras anthropophorum (L.) W.T. Aiton

Anacamptis collina Banks & Sol.

Habitat:

Clearings and edges of woodland, scrub and sunny meadows on basic soils.

Habitat

Meadows, scrub and open woodland, on limestone and basic soils.

Comments

Highly localised, Delfirge (2002) includes this species within the genus Orchis [Orchis antropophora (L.) All.], based on DNA affinities and frequent hybridisation with species of that genus (Orchiaceras).

Comments

Relatively abundant, albeit patchy, across the western third of Badajoz province and more localised in Cáceres province.

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Bug Orchid

Champagne Orchid

Anacamptis coriophora L.

Anacamptis champagneuxii Barn.

Habitat

Damp meadows and pastures, but not waterlogged, on siliceous soils as well as limestone areas.

Habitat

Comments

Meadows, scrub and open woodland, with large colonies.

A polymorphic species, with an enormous variation in colour and size of flower spikes influenced by diverse environmental factors. Within the same population there can be different characteristics combined, which has given rise to distinct taxonomic descriptions within the species.

Comments

Sometimes assigned to Orchis morio, as a variety, an example of the polymorphism in that species.

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Loose-flowered Orchid

Green-winged Orchid

Anacamptis laxiflora Lam.

Anacamptis morio L.

Habitat

Meadows, scrub and wooded areas.

Comments

A polymorphic species, with sets of characters that have given rise to some recognised varieties and intermediate forms (such as the number of markings on the lips and their form, the lip more or less folded and the whiteness in colouration being more or less uniform, the shape of the spur etc.) which can be more difficult to designate.

Habitat

Damp places close to streams, marshes and springs.

Comments

Spread across the region but localised and generally not numerous.

Anacamptis JAN

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Pink Butterfly Orchid

Pyramidal Orchid

Anacamptis papilionacea L.

Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich.

Habitat

Meadows, scrub and open wooded areas on basic soils.

Habitat

Meadows and pasture in limestone areas.

Comments

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. Polymorphic species, with variation in size and colouration of the flowers (the darkness of the perianth, the degree of marking on the lip) from which is derived the description of varieties.

Very localised species in Extremadura, only in the central southern area of Badajoz province and near Cáceres, whilst it is the most common species of limestone areas elsewhere in Spain.

Cephalantera JAN

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Sword-leaved Helleborine

Red Helleborine

Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) Fritsch

Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich.

Habitat

Deciduous woodland of oak and sweet chestnut in damp and shady places.

Habitat

Shady and deciduous woodland, especially cork oak and sweet chestnut.

Comments

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. It is a scarce and very localised species in montane woodland in the north of Cáceres province, despite being a limestone-loving species.

Comments

Dispersed but locally abundant, above all in the mountains in Cáceres province, more localised in Badajoz.

Dactylorhiza JAN

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Robust Marsh Orchid

Heath Spotted Orchid

Dactylorhiza elata (Poiret) Soó

Dactylorhiza maculata (L.) Soó

Habitat

Pastures, springs and damp places in montane areas at high elevations.

Habitat

Damp mountain grassland, moorland and peaty areas.

Comments

Localised and mainly found in Cáceres province, much rarer in Badajoz, in grassland and damp places in the mountains.

Rare and localised in northern montane sites in Cáceres province.

Dactylorhiza JAN

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Barton’s Orchid

Sulphur Orchid

Habitat

Comments

Dactylorhiza insularis (Sommier)

Dactylorhiza sulphurea (Link) Franco

Edges and clearings in deciduous oak and sweet chestnut woodland.

Edges and clearings in sweet chestnut, deciduous oak and cork oak.

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. Scarce and localised in some mountain areas in Cáceres province. Also known as D. sambucina subsp. insularis (Moris) P. Englmaier

Listed as “Vulnerable” in Extremadura. Scarce and localised in Cáceres province, very rare in Badajoz. Earlier known as Dactylorhiza markusii (Tineo) Bauman (Pérez Chiscano et. al, 1991).

Epipactis

Himantoglossum JAN

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Broad-leaved Helleborine

Giant Orchid

Epipactis helleborine (L.) Crantz

Himantoglossum

robertianum (Loisel.) Greuter

Habitat

Edges of holm oak woodland, wild olives and olive groves in limestone areas.

Habitat

Comments

Woodland, especially of oak species, also sweet chestnut.

Perhaps not well known because of its early flowering. Rare and localised in Extremadura, more widely distributed in Badajoz province, very local in Cáceres. Can be found both as isolated plants as well as small groups, striking in appearance, especially because of its large size.

Comments

Relatively frequent in Cáceres province but much scarcer in Badajoz. Occurs in a range of habitats with variation of form and appearance, size and colour, according to the environmental characteristics of the site

Limodorum JAN

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Violet Limodore

Trabut’s Limodore

Habitat

Comments

Limodorum abortivum (L.) Sw.

Limodorum trabutianum Batt.

Cork oak and sweet chestnut woodland in shade.

Holm and cork oak woodland on hills.

Dispersed and infrequent in Badajoz as well as Cáceres provinces.

Listed as “Vulnerable” in Extremadura. Very localised and scarce.

Neotinea JAN

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Conical Orchid

Dense-flowered Orchid

Habitat

Neotinea conica Willd.

Neotinea maculata (Desf.) Stearn

Woodland with cork and holm oak, strawberry tree, also very frequent in pine woods.

Meadows at edge of wooded areas with cork oak and holm oak, on silicaceous soils as well as limestone areas.

Comments

Dispersed in wooded areas and northern slopes of hills, as well as pine woods. Locally abundant. Spread across Cáceres province, occasional in Badajoz.

Earlier known as Orchis conica, appears dispersed and occasional in both Badajoz and Cáceres provinces, although locally abundant.

Neottia

Ophrys JAN

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Bird’s Nest Orchid

Bee Orchid

Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich.

Ophrys apifera Huds.

Habitat

Shady deciduous woodland, especially sweet chestnut.

Habitat

Comments

Meadows on limestone.

Listed as “Vulnerable” in Extremadura. Found in montane areas of Cáceres province, in damp shady places with abundant leaf litter and organic matter.

Comments

Scarce and localised, more abundant in Badajoz province.

JAN

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Almaraz Bee Orchid

Bumblebee Orchid

Ophrys apifera var. almaracensis Pérez Ch., Gil&Durán

Ophrys bombyliflora Link

Habitat

Meadows and edges of olive groves on limestone.

Comments

Habitat

Meadows and pasture on limestone and basic soils, in clearings in wooded areas.

A variety discovered in Extremadura by Pérez Chiscano, J.L., Durán Oliva, F. & Gil Llano, J.R. (1990). Because of its rarity and highly localised population (Cáceres province), it is considered extremely noteworthy.

Comments

Very localised and scarce in Badajoz province.

Ophrys JAN

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Hairy Bee Orchid

Sombre Bee Orchid

Ophrys dyris Maire

Ophrys fusca Link

Habitat

Meadows, edges of fields and holm oak woodland on basic soils.

Meadows on basic soils.

Comments

According to Flora Ibérica, this is a subspecies within the O. fusca group (O. fusca ssp. fusca). The group has complex systematics owing to polymorphism in size, hairiness and colouration of the lip, differences in phenology and around pollinating agent.

Part of the O. fusca group, it has a very localised and scarce presence in both provinces (Badajoz and Cáceres). It is listed as of “Special Interest” in the current List of Protected Species in Extremadura (Vázquez Pardo 2005).

JAN

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Early Spider Orchid

Yellow Bee Orchid

Ophrys incubacea Bianca

Ophrys lutea Cav.

Habitat

Meadows and grasslands on basic soils in limestone areas.

Comments

Some authorities consider that the difference between this species and others in the O. incubacea group is unclear because of the great variability in morphology and the combination of characters found within the same population, with the result that it is hard to find consistent differences in order to define true taxa.

Habitat

Meadows and grasslands on basic soils.

Comments

Relatively abundant, especially in Badajoz province, with very attractive yellow flowers.

JAN

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Woodcock Orchid

Mirror Orchid

Ophrys scolopax Cav.

O. speculum Link. subsp. speculum

Habitat

Grassland, meadows and clearings in holm oak woodland, mainly on basic soils.

Habitat

Comments

Meadows and edge of cultivation on basic soils.

There is great morphological variability in size, shape of sepals and petals, as well as colour variation. However, concise differences have not been established, there are grades of intermediate sizes, making delimitation difficult.

Comments

An unmistakeable species, relatively abundant in Badajoz province, less so in Cáceres.

Ophrys

Orchis

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Sawfly Orchid

Naked Man Orchid

Ophrys tenthredinifera Willd.

Orchis italica Poir

Habitat

Meadows, open scrub with sparse bushes, clearings in holm oak woodland, preferably on basic soils.

Meadows and open wooded areas, on basic soils.

Comments

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. Mainly found in Badajoz province because of more suitable conditions and rather sporadic in Cáceres. Occasionally appears in an almost explosive way, with a great abundance of specimens.

The most abundant and widespread member of the Ophrys family. There are distinct variations in intensity of colouration of sepals and petals, with variations as well in phenology.

Orchis JAN

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Langei’s Orchid

Early Purple Orchid

Orchis langei K. Richt.

Orchis mascula (L.)

Habitat

Meadows and wooded areas, especially decidous.

Woodland, especially deciduous (Pyrenean oak and sweet chestnut).

Comments

Within the group O. mascula, in Extremadura, as well as the typical (subsp. mascula), shown, there are other recognised subspecies: O. mascula subsp. olbiensis, O. mascula subsp. tenera (Landwehr) C.A.J. Kreutz.

Comments

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. Sporadic in Badajoz province, more strongly represented in higher elevations in Cáceres.

Serapias JAN

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Heart-lipped Tongue Orchid

Common Tongue Orchid Serapias lingua L.

Serapias cordigera L.

Habitat

Meadows and open areas, requiring moist ground

Moderately damp meadows.

Comments

Copious on many occasions, sometimes sporadic and frequently accompanied by other Serapias. It is a widely distributed species in Extremadura, especially in Cáceres province.

Dispersed and localised in both Badajoz and Cáceres provinces. The flower is attractive with its vivid purple colour and heart-shape.

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Small-flowered Tongue Orchid

Perez-Chiscano’s Tongue Orchid

Serapias parviflora Parl.

Serapias perez-chiscanoi Acedo

Habitat

Damp meadows on sandy, siliaceaous soil.

Comments

Habitat

Until 2006, this species was only known from the Guadiana basin in Extremadura, but subsequently other populations have been found in Cáceres province. Listed “in Danger of Extinction” in Extremadura, given its locations, the small population and its uniqueness.

Meadows and pasture, both damp and dry.

Comments

Normally scarce and dispersed, usually with other Serapias. More frequent in Badajoz province than in Cáceres.

Serapias

Spiranthes

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Long-lipped Tongue Orchid

Summer Lady’s Tresses

Serapias vomeracea (Burm. Fil.) Briq.

Spiranthes aestivalis (Poir.) Rich.

Habitat

Pasture on relatively damp soil, especially silicaeous.

Damp meadows, close to streams and other wet places.

Comments

Listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura. Scarce in Cáceres province and even rarer in Badajoz.

Dispersed and locally abundant both in Cáceres proivince as well as Badajoz, often sharing habitat with other Serapias.

Spiranthes JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Autumn Lady’s Tresses Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Cheval.

Habitat

Meadows beside streams and boggy areas, places retaining moisture, including abandoned olive groves.

Comments

Very localised and scarce, both in Badajoz and Cáceres provinces.

ORCHIDS of Extremadura

Langei’s Orchid (Orchis langei K. Richt.).

Extremadura

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY EXTREMADURA, AN IDEAL DESTINATION FOR DRAGONFLY ENTHUSIASTS The great variety of aquatic ecosystems and their good state of conservation makes Extremadura an ideal place to visit to look for more than 50 species of dragonfly and damselfly. The north and east of Extremadura have the highest species richness, where it is possible to find in a single 10 km square up to 43 species. The richness declines as one heads south towards the province of Badajoz.

Its geographical position enables not just more common species to be seen, but also 90 % of the more typically North African species that have been found in Spain, such as Anax ephippiger, Paragomphus genei, Orthetrum trinacria, Orthetrum chrysostigma, Brachythemis impartita, Crocothemis erythraea, Trithemis annulata, Trithemis kirbyi or Selysiothemis nigra. However, in the northern third of the region, we can also find species from higher latitudes such as Libellula quadrimaculata, Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Aeshna juncea or Cordulegaster boltonii.

The lucky visitor could observe some species that are particularly rare because of their scarcity or erratic distribution, such as Sympetrum meridionale, Diplacodes lefebvrii, Sympetrum sanguineum, Onychogomphus costae, Gomphus simillimus or Aeshna cyanea. This guide will help the visitor to get to know a group of species, present on Earth for over 300 million years, where rivalry, cannibalism, love rituals, hunting strategies or territorial defence are key for their survival in their aquatic habitat.

The quality of Extremadura’s ecosystems means that they host nationally important populations of Coenagrion scitulum, and of the most-threatened species at a national level, now protected, and relatively easily found. These include Coenagrion mercuriale, Coenadrion caerulescens, Gomphus graslinii, Oxygastra curtisii and the most threatened species, Macromia splendens, listed as in Danger of Extinction, which is present in some of the best conserved stretches of Extremadura’s rivers.

Splendid Cruiser Macromia splendens, male

Orange-winged Dropwing Dropwing Trithemis kirbyi, male

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY HABITATS gomphus forcipatus, Gomphus simillimus, Orthetrum trinacria, Platycnemis acutipennis, Oxygastra curtisii and Macromia splendens.

RUNNING WATER RIVERS. FAST-FLOWING UPPER COURSES AND GORGES Stretches situated at higher altitudes in V-shaped valleys, with clean well-oxygenated, permanent water. Sometimes water flow will be torrential. The narrow water courses have beds of rock or large pebbles. Aquatic vegetation is almost absent. Typically there will be alder or willow gallery woodland and sedges (Carex sp.) may be present in the water or along the banks. Precipitous mountain torrents have characteristics like the upper courses of the rivers and are found in the northern third and in the east of the region. Species include niche specialists like Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis, Cordulegaster boltonii, Onychogomphus uncatus, Aeshna cyanea, Boyeria Irene, Calopteryx virgo or Calopteryx xhantostoma.

RIVERS. LOWER COURSES. As the river descends to lower altitudes it may be more vulnerable in drought years to be reduced to a series of pools of different depths. The watercourse is wide with the riverbed of sand and silt. The water is more turbid and warmer. The banks will have more stable vegetation, with clumps of poplars, ash, willow and elm with patches of rushes and barer zones. Aquatic vegetation is abundant, especially with species of Ceratophyllum or Myriophyllum and areas of reed mace and reed, creating a great variety of microhabitats. Here can be found Anax imperator, Ischnura graellsii, Anax parthenope, Gomphus pulchellus, Lestes barbarus, Sympetrum fonscolombii, Orthetrum chrysostigma, Trithemis annulata and Onychogomphus costae.

RIVERS. MIDDLE COURSES Presence of permanent water where the gradient and speed of flow is less. The river widens and gets deeper. The riverbed will comprise rock, gravel and sand. The riverine woodland is dominated by ash, willows and brambles and there will be patches of shade alternating with sunlit zones. Thanks to this varied ecosystem there will be a large number of microhabitats favouring the presence of species of both upper and lower courses: Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis, Lestes viridis, Boyeria Irene, Calopteryx virgo, Platycnemis latipes, Onycho-

SEASONAL STREAMS These are water courses that during some months of the year will not have flowing water, being reduced to small shallow pools. The bankside vegetation is formed by galleries of oleander and tamujo bushes, with scattered trees (ash, oak and willow). The water surface will be highly exposed to sunlight. These zones are occupied by opportunistic dragonfly species typical of spring and autumn such as Ischnura graellsii, Anax imperator, Erythromma lindenii, Anax parthenope, Brachythemis impartita, Lestes

viridis, Crocothemis erythraea, Lestes barbarus, Sympetrum fonscolombii, Orthetrum chrysostigma, Trithemis annulata and Sympetrum striolatum.

STANDING WATER MAN-MADE POOLS AND LAKES Aquatic habitats of artificial origin that collect rainwater or run-off. They are usually created for livestock or irrigation. They vary in size, from less than a hectare to several hectares. The water surface is stable, but there will be strong variations in depth through the year. Often have a border of herbaceous or shrubby vegetation on the banks. The bed will be silty. Aquatic vegetation may sometimes be absent. Tend to be colonised by generalist species such as Ischnura graellsii, Sympetrum fonscolombii, Orthetrum cancellatum, Crocothemis erythraea or Trithemis annulata.

BOGGY AREAS Tend to be in poor acid soils and are permanently moist or waterlogged. There are carpets of Sphagnum moss and cross-leaved heath (Erica tetralix). There are few species, but they are highly specialist, like Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Ischnura pumilio, Coenagrion mercuriale, Libellula quadrimaculata and Orthetrum coerulescens. IRRIGATION CHANNELS Here we refer to traditional earth-sided irrigation channels to provide water to meadows in mountainous areas in the north of Extremadura. They have a width of no more than 50 cm and are very shallow. We can find specialist species such as Coenagrion mercuriale, Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Cordulegaster boltonii, Ceriagrion tenellum and Orthetrum coerulescens.

GLACIAL LAKES These are high altitude lakes that in Extremadura are found in the Gredos Mountains. They have permanent water, which is very cold and well oxygenated, supplied by nearby springs with depths that vary from one to four metres and with an area of less than a hectare. In spring and summer aquatic vegetation will appear and the banks will be herbaceous. There are few species, but all noteworthy like Pyrrhosoma nymphula, Aeshna juncea, Libellula quadrimaculata and Cordulegaster boltonii.

Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum), flying in tandem.

RESERVOIRS Head reservoirs can be found at higher altitudes and are smaller in area and surrounded by dense woodland and scrubby vegetation on the banks. The water is cold with high oxygen levels and has aquatic vegetation. Here there are species typical of both upper courses of rivers as well as damned water bodies such as Libellula depressa, Erythromma lindenii, Sympetrum striolatum, Lestes barbarous or Anax imperator. In addition, at some of the better head reservoirs we can find Libellula quadrimaculata, Gomphus graslinii, Gomphus simillimus, Oxygastra curtisii or Macromia spendens. Reservoirs at middle course or lower course will tend to be larger. The supply of water may or may not be permanent. They suffer great fluctuations in depth in the summer, leaving bare banks, with nearby grassland. Aquatic vegetation is scarce. Amongst typical species of this habitat are Ischnura graellsii, Erythromma viridulum, Sympetrum fonscolombii, Anax imperator, Anax parthenope, Brachythemis impartita, Orthetrum trinacria, Aeshna mixta, Crocothemis erythraea and Trithemis annulata.

Extremadura

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY 41

Carlos Tovar Breña, with Keeled Skimmer.

JJavier Pérez Gordillo during a day of dragonfly watching.

GOOD PRACTICE FOR WATCHING DRAGONFLIES

Having a pastime in which other living creatures are involved means that a series of ethical norms should be followed that allows one to enjoy nature, without interfering with the life cycle of these species. So, if you want to get to know and enjoy the experience of watching dragonflies, you should follow the following recommendations: 01

THE GUIDE IS YOUR BEST ALLY. Get to know these species with a professional guide who is experienced with this group and understands their biology.

AVOID CAPTURING IF POSSIBLE. The identification of dragonflies, in most cases, does not require capturing individuals, use binoculars to recognise them.

CAREFUL, YOU ARE KILLING ME. If you do capture an example to identify it, handle it with great care. They are very delicate animals and you could cause their death. Always return them to nature in perfect condition.

THE LITTLE ONES, NO! Never capture or handle immatures (recently emerged and lacking adult colour).

COMPLY WITH THE LAW. Some species are protected because they are threatened species and should never be disturbed.

THE BEST COLLECTION…MY FILE OF PHOTOGRAPHS. Collections of insect specimens are prohibited by law unless for scientific purposes, for which relevant permits must be granted.

DO NOT INVADE THEIR SPACE! When taking macrophotographs do not interfere with the life cycle of the insects or damage their habitat.

COLLABORATE FOR THEIR CONSERVATION! Send information about the species you identify to the relevant authority for their conservation vidasilvestre.secona@juntaex.es

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY SUBORDER ZYGOPTERA (DAMSELFLIES) Family Calopterygidae 48 Genus Calopteryx Leach, 1815 Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis (Vander Linden, 1825) Calopteryx virgo meridionalis Selys, 1873 Calopteryx xanthostoma (Charpentier, 1825) Family Lestidae Genus Lestes Leach, 1815 Lestes barbarus (Fabricius, 1798) Lestes dryas Kirby, 1890 Lestes macrostigma, (Eversmann, 1836) Lestes virens (Charpentier, 1825) Lestes viridis (Vander Linden, 1825) Genus Sympecma Burmeister, 1839 Sympecma fusca (Vander Linden, 1820)

SUBORDER ANISOPTERA (DRAGONFLIES) 52

Family Platycnemididae Genus Platycnemis Burmeister, 1839 Platycnemis acutipennis Selys, 1841 Platycnemis latipes Rambur, 1842

Family Coenagrionidae Genus Ceriagrion Selys, 1876 Ceriagrion tenellum (Villers, 1789)

54 Genus Coenagrion Kirby, 1890 Coenagrion caerulescens (Fonscolombe, 1838) Coenagrion mercuriale (Charpentier, 1840) Coenagrion puella (Linnaeus, 1758) Coenagrion scitulum (Rambur, 1842) Genus Enallagma Charpentier, 1840 56 Enallagma cyathigerum (Charpentier, 1840) Genus Erythromma Charpentier, 1840 56 Erytrhomma lindenii (Selys, 1842) Erythromma viridulum (Charpentier, 1840) Genus Ischnura Charpentier, 1840 57 Ischnura graellsii (Rambur, 1842) Ischnura pumilio (Charpentier, 1825) Genus Pyrrhosoma Charpentier, 1840 58 Pyrrhosoma nymphula (Sulzer, 1776)

Family Aeshnidae Genus Aeshna Fabricius, 1775 Aeshna cyanea (Müller, 1764) Aesnha juncea (Linnaeus, 1758) Aeshna mixta Latreille, 1805 Genus Anax Leach, 1815 Anax ephippiger (Burmeister, 1839) Anax imperator Leach, 1815 Anax parthenope Selys, 1839 Genus Boyeria McLachlan, 1896 Boyeria irene (Fonscolombe, 1838)

SPECIES LIST

Family Gomphidae

Family Libellulidae

Genus Gomphus Leach, 1815 65 Gomphus graslinii Rambur, 1842 Gomphus pulchellus Selys, 1840 Gomphus simillimus Selys, 1840 Genus Onychogomphus Selys, 1854 66 Onychogomphus costae Selys, 1885 Onychogomphus forcipatus (Linnaeus, 1758) Onychogomphus uncatus (Charpentier, 1840) Genus Paragomphus Cowley, 1934 68 Paragomphus genei (Selys, 1841) Family Cordulegastridae Genus Cordulegaster Leach, 1815 Cordulegaster boltonii (Donovan, 1807)

Family Macromiidae Genus Macromia Rambur, 1842 Macromia splendens (Pictet, 1843)

Family Corduliidae Genus Oxygastra Selys, 1870 Oxygastra curtisii (Dale, 1834)

Genus Brachythemis Brauer, 1868 Brachythemis impartita (Karsh, 1890) Genus Crocothemis Brauer, 1868 Crocothemis erythraea (Brullé, 1832) Genus Diplacodes Kirby, 1889 Diplacodes lefebvrii (Rambur, 1842) Genus Libellula Linnaeus, 1758 Libellula depressa Linnaeus, 1758 Libellula quadrimaculata Linnaeus, 1758 Genus Orthetrum Newman, 1883 Orthetrum brunneum (Fonscolombe, 1837) Orthetrum cancellatum (Linnaeus, 1758) Orthetrum coerulescens (Fabricius, 1798) Orthetrum chrysostigma (Burmeister, 1839) Orthetrum trinacria (Selys, 1841) Genus Selysiothemis Ris, 1897 Selysiothemis nigra (Vander Linden, 1825) Genus Sympetrum Newman, 1833 Sympetrum fonscolombii (Selys, 1840) Sympetrum meridionale (Selys, 1841) Sympetrum sanguineum (Müller, 1764) Sympetrum striolatum (Charpentier, 1840) Genus Trithemis Brauer, 1868 Trithemis annulata (Palisot de Beauvois, 1807) Trithemis kirbyi (Selys, 1891)

70 71 71 72 73

75 76

Common Blue (Enallagma cyathigerum), male.

Extremadura

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY

DAMSELFLIES SUBORDER ZYGOPTERA

The Zygoptera are a suborder of the order Odonata and they are commonly known as damselflies. They differ from other Odonata because their two pairs of wings are of similar size and, being more delicate, they lie along the abdomen at rest. Furthermore, the eyes lie further apart and are smaller than in the dragonflies.

Genus Calopteryx

Suborder Zygoptera Family Calopterygidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Copper Demoiselle Calopteryx haemorrhoidalis Habitat: Upper and middle courses of rivers and mountain streams with

abundant vegetation of trees and bushes. Stony riverbeds with water depth of less than 1 m and presence of aquatic vegetation such as Ranunculus. Comments: Metallic bronzy-black colour. The underside of the last segments of the abdomen are fuchsia in colour. Occurs in the northern third, east and west of the region, with sightings also in cooler zones in the south.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo meridionalis Habitat: Upper courses of rivers and mountain streams with fast-flowing welloxygenated water with stony riverbeds and abundant bankside vegetation. Prefers shady zones. Comments: Wings of male with bluish patch almost up to the base of the wing. Attractive courtship flights. Shares habitat with the other two species of demoiselles. Present in the northern third of the region, as well as the mountains of Valencia de Alcántara, Siberia and Ibores-Villuercas.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Western Demoiselle Calopteryx xanthostoma Habitat: Shallow and medium deep rivers, well oxygenated with stony riverbeds and abundant bankside vegetation.

Comments: The bluish patch on the wing of the male reaches halfway along

its length. Sometimes there are hundreds of individuals present. Present in the northern third of the region, as well as the mountains of Valencia de Alcántara and Ibores-Villuercas.

Genus Lestes

Suborder Zygoptera Family Lestidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Migrant Spreadwing Lestes barbarus Habitat: Standing water with bushy vegetation close to the bank, rushes and some tree cover. Also found on slow-flowing rivers with willows.

Comments: Bicoloured pterostigma. Rests with wings half-opened. Can emerge in great abundance. Widely distributed in the north and centre of Extremadura with large populations in La Vera.

Genus Lestes

Suborder Zygoptera Family Lestidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Robust Spreadwing Lestes dryas Habitat: Standing shallow water with low pH. Zones with emergent aquatic vegetation present at the water’s edge (rushes and other species).

Comments: Black pterostigma. Rests with wings half-opened. Eggs are laid when in tandem, usually on rushes. Uncommon and dispersed north of Guadiana river.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Dark Spreadwing Lestes macrostigma Habitat:: Standing water and livestock drinking pools with shallow water and bankside vegetation of rushes and reed mace. Comments: The largest spreadwing in Extremadura. Metallic green abdomen with bluish pruinosity at the tip. Bluish head and eyes. The wings are strikingly rounded. In Extremadura it was discovered for the first time in 2018 in a pool in Quintana de la Serena, the only record so far.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Small Spreadwing Lestes virens Habitat: Pools and reservoirs as well as slow-flowing water courses. Requires emergent aquatic vegetation on the banks (rushes) and associated scrub.

Comments: The smallest spreadwing in Extremadura. Rests with half-opened

wings. Usually hides in herbaceous vegetation. Distributed mainly in the north and centre of the region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Western Willow Spreadwing Lestes viridis Habitat: Slow flowing water, whether seasonal or not. Also standing water

(reservoirs). Always with woody and herbaceous vegetation close to the bank.

Comments: Large size. Lays eggs under the bark of trees and bushes. Widely distributed in the region and most abundant in the northern third and the extreme east and west.

Genus Sympecma

Suborder Zygoptera Family Lestidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Common Winter Damsel Sympecma fusca Habitat: Standing water and rivers with developed aquatic vegetation. Comments: General brownish colouration. Hairy head and long brown pterostigma. The only species that can be found in winter. Dispersed distribution in Extremadura.

Genus Platycnemis

Suborder Zygoptera Family Platycnemididae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Orange Featherleg Platycnemis acutipennis Habitat: Slow-flowing water with emergent vegetation on the banks. Sometimes the shallow ends of reservoirs.

Comments: Generally orange in colouration. Tibias of the 2nd and 3rd pairs of legs are enlarged and have narrow lines. Relatively abundant with the main populations in the northern third and centre of the region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

White Featherleg Platycnemis latipes Habitat: Flowing water (streams, rivers and torrents) with abundant riverside vegetation on the banks.

Comments: Generally white in colouration. The 2nd and 3rd pairs of legs have

very enlarged tibias without lines. Flies in a zig-zag fashion. Has a dispersed distribution in Extremadura, but with abundant populations.

Genus Ceriagrion

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Small Red Damsel Ceriagrion tenellum Habitat: Small, shallow pools with good coverage of aquatic and emergent

vegetation. Boggy and other wet ground, as well as small, slow-flowing streams. Comments: Red legs and pterostigma. No black marks on abdomen. Makes short weak flights close to the bank. Dispersed distribution according to the presence of suitable habitat.

Genus Coenagrion

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Mediterranean Bluet Coenagrion caerulescens Habitat: Small watercourses with running, well-oxygenated shallow water, in sunny situations with abundant emergent aquatic vegetation.

Comments: Blue and black colouration. Distinguished from other species in

the genus by its brown pterostigma. Lays multiple times. Scarce and isolated populations in Extremadura.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Mercury Bluet Coenagrion mercuriale Habitat: Water courses with little current, good quality, shallow water (ditches in

hay meadows, small streams, peat bogs, outlets of springs) with well-developed emergent vegetation. Comments: Blue and black colouration. Has a mark similar to the helmet of the god Mercury on the 2nd segment of the abdomen. Very localised and scarce populations in the Jerte Valley, La Vera, Villuercas, Alcántera and Siberia. Species listed as “Vulnerable”.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Azure Bluet Coenagrion puella Habitat: Slow-flowing, usually seasonal watercourses and shallow standing water. Always with abundant emergent and aquatic vegetation.

Comments: Blue and black colouration. On the 2nd segment of the abdomen a U-shaped black mark. A scarce species with two main population nuclei: La Vera and the Villuercas.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Dainty Bluet Coenagrion scitulum Habitat: Standing water (pools with little pressure from livestock and small reservoirs) with abundant aquatic vegetation and herbaceous banks.

Comments: Blue and black colouration. The smallest of the genus. Has multiple couplings. Emergences in mass with hundreds of individuals. Widely distributed in the north and centre, fewer in the south.

Genus Enallagma

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Common Bluet Enallagma cyathigerum Habitat: A generalist and tolerant species that can be found in both standing

and running water, although prefers slow-flowing water with bankside vegetation. Comments: Generally blue and black colouration. Toadstool-shaped black mark on 2nd segment of the abdomen. The female submerges in the water to lay eggs. Although present across the whole region it is not abundant.

Genus Erythromma

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Blue-eye Erythromma lindenii Habitat: Standing water as well as rivers with little current. Vegetation does not determine presence.

Comments: Generally blue and black colouration. Typical mark in form of an X at the end of the abdomen. The males fly just above the water surface on short, rapid flights. Present across almost the whole region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Small Red-eye Erythromma viridulum Habitat: Standing water (from small pools to large reservoirs) with floating aquatic vegetation.

Comments: Generally blue and black in colouration. Red eyes. Typical mark in form of an X at the end of the abdomen. Widely distributed across the whole region apart from at high altitude.

Genus Ischnura

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Iberian Bluetail Ischnura graellsii Habitat: All types of aquatic habitats. Generalist in terms of water quality but requires some aquatic and emergent vegetation.

Comments: Copulation lasts for up to two hours and the female lays alone on floating vegetation. It is the most abundant damselfly, distributed practically throughout the whole of Extremadura.

Genus Ischnura

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Small Bluetail Ischnura pumilio Habitat: Standing water, but also along the middle and lower courses of rivers and streams with emergent and aquatic vegetation present.

Comments: Generalist and pioneer species with small populations in

Extremadura, scarcer in the south, where it can be overlooked within populations of I. graellsii.

Genus Pyrrhosoma

Suborder Zygoptera Family Coenagrionidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Large Red Damsel Pyrrhosoma nymphula Habitat: Well-oxygenated permanent running water with abundant riverside

vegetation (mountain streams, traditional irrigation ditches). Also in boggy areas.

Comments: Generally red and black in colouration. Males highly territorial. Legs and pterostigma black. Localised in moist areas in northern third of region, Villuercas, Siberia and Alcántara.

Robust Spreadwing (Lestes dryas), copulation.

Moorland Hawker (Aeshna juncea), female in flight.

Extremadura

DRAGONFLY AND DAMSELFLY

DRAGONFLIES SUBORDER ANISOPTERA

The Anisoptera are commonly known as dragonflies, although this name is often used for all species of the Odonata. Their heads and eyes are larger than those of damselflies. They are palaeopteras, which means insects that cannot fold their wings over the abdomen. Furthermore, the forewings are shaped differently from the hind wings.

Genus Aeshna

Suborder Anisoptera Family Aeshnidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Blue Hawker Aeshna cyanea Habitat: Small pools and irrigation structures, small relatively shallow watercourses with stony beds and dense bankside vegetation.

Comments: The largest Hawker in Extremadura. Has a T-shaped mark on the

frons. Males are highly territorial. It is an elusive and solitary species. Active at dusk. Present at a few dispersed localities.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Moorland Hawker Aeshna juncea Habitat: Small wet areas (pools and bogs) with emergent aquatic vegetation above 1,800 metres altitude.

Comments: Blue eyes and a mark in the form of a T on the frons. The males

defend their territories flying a metre above the water. In Extremadura only found in the Gredos Mountains.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Migrant Hawker Aeshna mixta Habitat: Woodland whilst maturing and standing water (pools, reservoirs) of varying depth with the presence of reed mace and reeds when adult.

Comments: The smallest Hawker. Has two small yellow patches on the upper thorax. It is not unusual to see groups of immatures hunting in woodland. Abundant in the Villuercas, La Vera and Hurdes.

Genus Anax

Suborder Anisoptera Family Aeshnidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Vagrant Emperor Anax ephippiger Habitat: Still water with rich bankside vegetation. Comments: General colouration orange-brown. A species which migrates from Africa to northern Europe. Migrating individuals can be frequently seen in Extremadura.

Genus Anax

Suborder Anisoptera Family Aeshnidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Blue Emperor Anax imperator Habitat: Permanent and seasonal standing water as well as middle and lower

courses of rivers. Presence of aquatic vegetation and emergent macrophytes.

Comments: Green thorax and blue abdomen with a black upper line. The males patrol endlessly from one end of their territory to another. Abundant and widespread species in Extremadura.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Lesser Emperor Anax parthenope Habitat: Standing water (pools and reservoirs) with large expanses of open

water and emergent and aquatic vegetation. Dammed sections of rivers or where the current is very slow. Comments: Identified by a yellow ring in the first segments of the abdomen and a blue patch on the 2rd. and half of the 3rd.. Makes very rapid flights. Widely distributed across the region, but not abundant.

Genus Boyeria

Suborder Anisoptera Family Aeshnidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Western Spectre Boyeria irene Habitat: Flowing well-oxygenated water (rivers and streams at mid to high altitudes) with areas of shade.

Comments: Coloured green and brown. Strongly narrowed at the 3rd segment of the abdomen. Patrols with a zigzag flight each little nook along the bank. Active at dusk. Distributed across the northern third of the region, as well as the west and east.

Genus Gomphus

Suborder Anisoptera Family Gomphidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Pronged Clubtail

Gomphus graslinii

Habitat: Slow-flowing shallow rivers that are not seasonal, with alternating

sunny and shady zones, with well vegetated and shrubby banks. Sometimes also reservoirs at the headwaters. Comments: A medium-sized dragonfly. Separated blue eyes. Present in the northern third and east of Extremadura. Scarce and listed as of “Special Interest” in Extremadura.

Genus Gomphus

Suborder Anisoptera Family Gomphidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Western Clubtail Gomphus pulchellus Habitat: Pools, reservoirs, lagoons, and rivers with hardly any current. It does not require the presence of much riverine vegetation.

Comments: Slender abdomen without terminal swelling. Males are territorial.

Often rests on the ground. Found across the whole region and most abundant in Cáceres province.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Yellow Clubtail Gomphus simillimus Habitat: Mid-altitude rivers and stream with well-oxygenated, plentiful water and riverine vegetation.

Comments: Yellow thorax with thick black streaks. Scarce with few

populations. Listed as “Vulnerable” in the Red Data Book of Invertebrates in Spain.

Genus Onychogomphus

Suborder Anisoptera Family Gomphidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Faded Pincertail Onychogomphus costae Habitat: More or less permanent watercourses with gravel riverbed and

sandy banks. The adults can be seen in the vegetation on the floodplains.

Comments: The smallest Pincertail in Extremadura. Yellow-orange

in colour. Short flights across areas far from water. Few populations detected in Extremadura.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Small Pincertail Onychogomphus forcipatus Habitat: Sunny stretches of rivers and streams with well-oxygenated water, exposed rocks in the water and on the banks, at mid-altitude.

Comments: The smallest Pincertail in Extremadura. Yellow-orange in colour. Short flights across areas far from water. Few populations detected in Extremadura.

Genus Onychogomphus

Suborder Anisoptera Family Gomphidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Large Pincertail Onychogomphus uncatus Habitat: Sunny stretches of upland rivers and streams with well-oxygenated water.

Comments: Without a yellow patch between the eyes. Lower anal appendage

hook-shaped and black. In Extremadura found in the north, central east and west of the region. Listed as “Vulnerable” in the Red Data Book of Invertebrates in Spain.

Genus Paragomphus

Suborder Anisoptera Family Gomphidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Green Hooktail Paragomphus genei Habitat: Poorly vegetated pools and reservoirs with beds of sands and gravels. Comments: Bluish-grey separated eyes. Final segments of abdomen swollen and hook-like appendage. Often rests on the ground. Distributed across the region with localised populations.

Genus Cordulegaster

Suborder Anisoptera Family Cordulegastridae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Common Goldenring Cordulegaster boltonii Habitat: Narrow watercourses with clear, well oxygenated water, streams and springtime torrents in mountainous areas up to 2000 metres.

Comments: A large species. Black thorax with yellow bands. Abdomen swollen at end. Territorial. Rests on twigs, hanging diagonally. Present largely in the northern third and east of the region.

Genus Macromia

Suborder Anisoptera Family Macromiidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Splendid Cruiser Macromia splendens Habitat: Open backwaters of quite deep rivers with clean, well-oxygenated

wáter, where there is some shade offered from riverine vegetation. Also head reservoirs. Comments: Thorax metallic green and hairy, crossed laterally by two yellow bands. Scarce populations in the north and east of the region. Included as “In Danger of Extinction” in the National List of Threated Species.

Genus Oxygastra

Suborder Anisoptera Family Corduliidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Orange-spotted Emerald Oxygastra curtisii Habitat: Sunny zones of backwaters of rivers (3-6 m wide) and gorges with riverine vegetation of trees and bushes that offer shade on the banks.

Comments: Distinctive emerald green eyes. Highly territorial. Rests in high in trees. Scarce and fragmentated populations in the north and east of the region. Included as “Sensitive to Alteration of Habitat” in the National List of Threatened Species.

Genus Brachythemis

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Northern Banded Groundling Brachythemis impartita Habitat: Puddles, pools and reservoirs with bare banks and slow-flowing,

seasonal rivers. Comments: Recognised by almost black colouration and dark bands across the wings. Flies fast just a few centimetres above the ground, resting on sandy areas such as footpaths. An African species present in Extremadura and expanding its range.

Genus Crocothemis

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Broad Scarlet Crocothemis erythraea Habitat: Any type of standing water or backwaters, from low altitude cultivated areas to head reservoirs of mountain rivers.

Comments: Intense red colouration all over. Very territorial. Dark line present along underside of abdomen aids identification. Widely distributed with abundant populations.

Genus Diplacodes

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Black Percher Diplacodes lefebvrii Habitat: Pools and small reservoirs with abundant herbaceous vegetation on the banks, mainly grasses that growing from inside the bank.

Comments: The smallest dragonfly in the region. Totally black in colour. Active at dusk which makes it difficult to detect. Present in the Guadiana and Tagus basins.

Genus Libellula

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Broad-bodied Chaser Libellula depressa Habitat: Standing water or where is there is hardly any flow (pools, canals,

streams and river backwaters) with sunshine and abundant submerged aquatic vegetation and shrubs and herbaceous vegetation on the banks. Comments: Broad and flattened abdomen blue in colour with yellow patches on the sides. Striking brown base to the wings. Found across the region, favouring damp areas.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Four-spotted Chaser Libellula quadrimaculata Habitat: Boggy areas, marshy ground close to springs, or head reservoirs with abundant aquatic vegetation, shrubs and herbaceous growth.

Comments: Note the four small black marks on the nodes of the wings.

The base of the forewings is amber-coloured. Vigorous and rapid flight. Uncommon with dispersed populations, never abundant.

Genus Orthetrum

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Southern Skimmer Orthetrum brunneum Habitat: Sunny, quiet areas along rivers with little current, waterlogged areas or soggy zones near springs. Places are not chosen according to vegetation.

Comments: Generally pale blue in colouration. Can be confused with O.

coerulescens. The male watches his territory from rest on bare ground. Scarce with a dispersed population across the whole region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Keeled Skimmer Orthetrum coerulescens Habitat: Standing or flowing water with abundant bankside and submerged vegetation.

Comments: Upper surface of the thorax with two characteristic whitish fringes, sometimes absent. Distributed across a large part of the region with highest abundance in cooler areas.

Genus Orthetrum

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum Habitat: Standing water or large backwaters of slow-flowing rivers. Comments: Wide and flattened bluish abdomen which is dark at the tip. Male

is highly territorial. Patrols the banks with rapid flight. Widely distributed with abundant populations.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Epaulet Skimmer Orthetrum chrysostigma Habitat: The quiet waters of pools and reservoirs, or backwaters of large or medium-sized rivers with little bankside vegetation.

Comments: Brown thorax with characteristic whitish band on the side, bordered by fine black lines. Slim abdomen with narrow waist. Widely distributed across the region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Long Skimmer Orthetrum trinacria Habitat: Reservoirs, marshes, or backwaters of rivers. Sunny open zones without trees.

Comments: The largest Skimmer in Extremadura. Robust blue thorax. Very

slim blue abdomen, swollen at the base. Very voracious. Widely distributed through the region.

Genus Selysiothemis

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Black Pennant Selysiothemis nigra Habitat: Shallow pools or very slow-flowing rivers with abundant marginal vegetation.

Comments: Small dragonfly. Head disproportionately large. Blackish eyes with reddish upper area. Normally flies at about a metre above the surface. Only one record in Extremadura.

Genus Sympetrum

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Red-veined Darter Sympetrum fonscolombii Habitat: Sunny pools and reservoirs, backwaters of seasonal rivers, rice fields and degraded waterlogged areas.

Comments: Common species. Red thorax with poorly defined yellow bands

on the sides. Emerges in massive numbers in August. Widely distributed with abundant populations.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Southern Darter Sympetrum meridionale Habitat: Sunny zones of shallow pools with emergent and bankside vegetation.

Comments: Thorax characteristically pale brown. Pale legs with narrow

black lines. Abdomen uniformly red. In Extremadura from just a few sites in Cáceres province.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Ruddy Darter Sympetrum sanguineum Habitat: Reservoirs, bogs and watercourses with little current with cold water and exuberant aquatic vegetation.

Comments: Brownish-red thorax with pronounced black lateral lines. Bright

red compressed abdomen. Diagnostic all-black legs. Rare and only in the north of the region.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum Habitat: Pools, reservoirs, rivers and seasonal streams with stagnant pools. Comments: Brown thorax with two well defined yellow bands, separated by a red band. In spring the immatures mature in woodland and return in summer and autumn to water bodies to reproduce. Distributed across the whole region.

Genus Trithemis

Suborder Anisoptera Family Libellulidae JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Violet Dropwing Trithemis annulata Habitat: Standing water or rivers with slow current, sunny zones. Comments: Generally quite scarlet in colouration. Saffron hue to base of hind wings. Very territorial. Typically perches in obelisk posture. Widely distributed with abundant populations.

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Orange-winged Dropwing Trithemis kirbyi Habitat: Seasonal rivers and streams exposed to strong sunlight, reduced

to small pools at the end of the summer drought. Also pools. Usually with rocky beds. Comments: Intense red colouration. Characteristic saffron patches on the wings. An African species found for the first time in Extremadura in 2010, colonising new zones in the south-east of the region.

Splendid Cruiser (Macromia splendens), copulation