Mid-summer update

As we approach the end of June most of the dragonfly and damselfly species that are known to be breeding in Hertfordshire have now been reported during 2018, although we may have to wait a bit longer for the first records of late summer/autumn species such as Migrant Hawker (Aeshna mixta) and Willow Emerald Damselfly (Chalcolestes viridis).

Sighting of some of the earliest flying species, in particular Hairy Dragonfly (Brachytron pratense) but also chasers like the Four-spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata) shown below, will now start to tail off, but many of the more obvious species such as Brown & Southern Hawkers (Aeshna grandis & A. cyanea) and Ruddy & Common Darters (Sympetrum sanguineum S. striolatum) will become more numerous during July and August.

Exciting news this year is that the Green-eyed Hawkers (Anaciaeshna isoceles - also known as Norfolk Hawkers - but that name doesn't seem appropriate any more) that arrived at Amwell four years ago seem to be expanding their Hertfordshire distribution and have so far been reported from three additional Hertfordshire sites, all close to Amwell.

Beautiful Demoiselles, which established a population just outside Hertfordshire a few years ago, on the Turkey Brook at Forty Hall, Middlesex, also seem to be spreading into Hertfordshire, with two reports of what were presumably wandering individuals in the east of the county and reports from Cuffley Brook in the south-east (not too far from Forty Hall). If anyone wants to see this species locally it is best looked for at Forty Hall with the bridge over Turkey Brook at TQ342987 being a good spot. To see them in Hertfordshire the points where public footpaths cross Cuffley Brook at TL315009 and TL310015 seem to provide the best opportunity, but they are at very low density along the brook. More on the Beautiful Demoiselles and Green-eyed Hawkers will follow in the next few days.

Please submit records of any dragonflies and damselflies that you see, including common species, using the record submission form on the HNHS website (http://www.hnhs.org/submit/dragonflies-and-damselflies), via iRecord, or by email to the following email address: dragonflies@hnhs.org  

 

New 'Hertfordshire Dragonflies and Damselflies Facebook group

I have set up a Facebook group that anyone with an interest in the dragonflies and damselflies of Hertfordshire, who uses Facebook, may like to join to share sightings and photos.

A link to the group can be found here: Herts dragonflies Facebook group   

 

Programme announced for Autumn Meeting and AGM (Saturday November 16)

The 2024 HNHS Autumn Meeting and AGM will take place on Saturday 16 November from 2 to 5.30pm at the offices of Affinity Water, Tamblin Way, Hatfield. AL10 9EZ

The speakers include Andrew Wood, author of Butterflies of Hertfordshire and Middlesex, who will talk about species and population trends including the most recent, disappointing season for butterflies. Marc Wilcox of Hertfordshire County Council will speak on the county's Local Nature Recovery Strategy, currently being drafted. 

The Society's awards for an outstanding county naturalist and an outstanding contributor to natural history will also be presented. 

Go wild in Watford at Wildfest 2024!

HNHS - Herts Bird Club is once again taking part in Wildfest, the annual family-friendly celebration of wildlife, on Saturday 13 July being organised by the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Come and find our stall at Cassiobury Park, Watford between 10am and 4pm and enjoy a wide range of activities including pond dipping, butterfly and bug hunts and bird watching.

HNHS Awards for 2024

If you know an outstanding Hertfordshire naturalist or someone who has made outstanding contribution to natural history in our county consider nominating them for an HNHS Award this year.