The insect formerly known as the Highland Darter was none other than a previously thought variation of the Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum). Long considered a distinct species 'nigricans', but recent studies suggest it is at best a colour variation of the Common Darter.  It became a matter of course to refer to the dark-sided males as Highland Darters when you lived in the West Highlands, as it was always nice to think that we had something that the rest of the country didn't!

 

This is a restless, orange-red dragonfly (male) that can often be seen basking on bare ground or rocks, from which it is able to absorb heat and become energised, even in cool conditions here in Argyll and the Isles. Common Darters have a particularly long period when they may be seen on the wing and this includes the West Highlands where they may first put in an appearance in June and still be around during mild days in early October!

 

Owing to this prolonged flight period, Common Darter eggs will either hatch and develop in the Summer/Autumn of one year or the following Spring for those that were laid late in the season. The nymphs grow quickly and emerge around one year after the eggs hatch.

 

The Common Darter is the most widespread of dragonflies in the UK, although it may be described as locally common in parts of Argyll and the Isles, where it may be encountered within a range of habitats, including ponds, ditches and lochans. Resident populations can sometimes be supplemented by immigrants during periods of warm anticyclonic weather in Summer, when individuals may travel long distances and may, quite bizarrely, include pairs 'in-tandem'. Trust is obviously an issue with these dragonflies. Talk about not wanting to let your partner out of your sight!