Promoted
Female Vagrant darter on hunting spot, Heesch, the Netherlands
I hope I got this species right, as the Vagrant Darter is very similar to the Common Darter. This dragonfly was found on a branch amidst a sea of pink common heather plants in a small habitat I visit frequently during summer, as it is very close to my home. During the heat of day, a dragonfly does not rest much, rather it being still like this means it is a fixed point from which it hunts. It will often return here.
This is also the start of a typical macro series for me. I spot something, and then first register it. Next, I'll slowly move closer for the closeups, trying not to chase it away. They key is in being very slow, no sudden movements, and not breaking any light.
The Vagrant Darter, ''Sympetrum vulgatum'', is a European dragonfly. The species takes it English name from its habit of occasionally appearing as a rare vagrant north of its normal range. However, it likely to be under-recorded because it is very similar to the Common Darter, ''S. striolatum''.
In central and northeast Europe, the species is common. In breeds in standing water.
