Broad-bodied Chaser
The Broad-bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa) is an iconic dragonfly. The male, with its bright blue and yellow abdomen, is the logo of the British Dragonfly Society. In Norfolk it is widespread but not particularly common. This is another species which seems to be emerging earlier, with the first report of 2005 coming from Whitlingham Marshes on April 28th.
Identification
The male can be confused in flight with the Black-tailed Skimmer, as both tend to fly quite rapidly, but the broad body and black "saddlebags" on the hind wings are distinctive.
Females often lurk near to water, using their camoflage to blend into gorse (as in the photo above from Mousehold Heath.) or reeds. Females can be confused with female Four-Spotted Chasers in flight, but the broader body is diagnostic
Locations
The best place in Norwich is Whitlingham Marsh, while the best spot in the county is Upton Fen, but it has been recorded from these sites:
| Location | Grid Reference | Status |
| Geldeston | TM389909 | Frequent |
| Holme Dunes | TF7044 | Frequent |
| Holt Lowes | TG0837 | Frequent |
| North Tuddenham Common | TG0314 | Frequent |
| Norwich | norwich | Frequent |
| Royden Common | TF6922 | Frequent |
| Thompson Common | TL9396 | Frequent |
| Titchwell | TF7544 | Frequent |
| Upton Fen | TG3813 | Frequent |
| Winterton Dunes | TG4821 | Frequent |