Wildlife

Wildlife in Spain is incredibly diverse, from Iberian lynx and brown bears to flamingos and eagles. Spain’s varied landscapes, including mountains, wetlands, and forests, provide habitats for many unique species. Observing wildlife offers a chance to connect with nature and learn about conservation efforts.

Iberian Bluetail – Ischnura graellsii – Cola azul ibérico

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Iberian Bluetail - Ischnura graellsii - Cola azul ibérico

The Iberian Bluetail – Ischnura graellsii – Cola azul ibérico is a small slender damselfly species. It is possibly the most commonly encountered and frequently the most numerous damselfly on the Iberian peninsula. Mature male Iberian Blue-tails have blue eyes, a black & blue thorax, and a generally black abdomen setting off the characteristic blue … Read more

Epaulet Skimmer – Orthetrum chrysostigma – Libélula azul

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Epaulet Skimmer - Orthetrum chrysostigma - Libélula azul

The Epaulet Skimmer – Orthetrum chrysostigma – Libélula azul is one of a number of dragonfly species where the mature male is predominantly blue and the female is predominantly a tan/brown colour. However it is unique amongst the Skimmers occurring on the Iberian peninsula in having a single white stripe or “epaulet” outlined in black … Read more

Desert Darter – Sympetrum sinaiticum – Libélula Flecha Roja

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Desert Darter - Sympetrum sinaiticum - Libélula Flecha Roja

The relatively small Desert Darter – Sympetrum sinaiticum – Libélula Flecha Roja is comparatively scarce in Spain, but in recent years it has started to become more frequently encountered. This may be as a result of a greater awareness of the species or perhaps as a result of climate change. It is a species of … Read more

Dragonflies and Damselflies in Spain

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Iberian dragonflies and damselflies are extremely beautiful insects which capture the very essence of summer
A pair of Scarce Blue-tailed Damselflies – Ischnura pumilio copulating in the “wheel” position
A pair of Scarce Blue-tailed Damselflies – Ischnura pumilio copulating in the “wheel” position

Dragonflies and damselflies in Spain are extremely beautiful insects which capture the very essence of summer as they perform their intricate aerobatics around the gleaming backdrop of rivers and pools on hot and sunny days.

As such they are highly visible and important indicators of the health of our wetlands being top insect predators both as airborne adults & aquatic larvae.

Dragonflies are entirely harmless and do not bite or sting, (though they may give a gentle nip if roughly handled!). They also make superb subjects for photography though getting close enough for a good shot can be difficult!

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