Four-Spotted Chaser

The Four-Spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata) is distinctive for its wing markings. As well as the characteristic "Saddle-bags" that all chasers have at the base of each hind-wing, the four-spot has markings at each node - and it is these four markings which give it its name. There is a not uncommon variant (praenubila), which has additional marks near the wing-tips. This is believed to be temperature dependant, and is more common in some years than others.

Photo:A Brazil

This is the most common of the chasers in Norfolk. An ambush predator, it sits on a prominent stick or reed head and waits for prey to fly by before pouncing on it. It will usually return to the same spot, making it an ideal subject for photography.