Key information
The migrant hawker is a small hawker dragonfly that spends long periods patrolling a sheltered hunting territory in the air, often in small parties.
If you are lucky, you may see one perched on a bush or fence when you can admire its subtle colours and markings.
Groups of migrant hawkers gather over gardens to feed on flying insects, so remember to look up above your garden, as well as in it, during late summer and autumn.
This is a common dragonfly that is increasing its range. The stronghold is in southern England, but it has spread well into northern England and has recently appeared in Ireland. Continental migrants may boost the population in late summer.
Like the common darter, the migrant hawker is on the wing late on the year.
What they eat:
Migrant hawker larvae eat almost anything they can find, while adult migrant hawker dragonfly eat insects caught on the wing.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 63mm
