The Cone-head mantis – Empusa pennata – Mantis palo, although similar in size to the common European Praying mantis (Mantis religiosa), is easily distinguished by the protrusion from its crown. Both male and females, even from first hatching carry this tall extension giving them a very alien appearance. They live in areas that are warm … Read more
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
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
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