A once rare species of damselfly – Willow Emerald, has been found in Ulley Country Park. This mating pair was photographed beside the pond-dipping pond on 23rd August and hopefully will lead to a colony on site next year.
Willow Emeralds were, until about five years ago, only recorded in East Anglia and then as migrants. Since then, they have spread north and west, reaching Rotherham this year. They have also been seen at Treeton.
They closely resemble the more usual Emerald but with a bit of practice can be told apart. Certainly one to look for next year!
Thanks to Mike Smethurst for this interesting post!