Migrant Spreadwing

Habitat: Dry, shallow waters on sandy substrates with dense rush vegetation, including in newly created water bodies.

Appearance: The range of the Migrant Spreadwing is confined to Mediterranean Europe. In Northern and Central Europe, until quite recently, only a few scattered populations were recorded. Fairly rare in Belgium and the Netherlands. Found mainly in the dunes and on sandy soils. Wanders widely and can therefore turn up anywhere.

Flying season: July to September.

Characteristics: Length 40–45 mm, wingspan 45–50 mm.

Life cycle: The Migrant Spreadwing often lays its eggs near dry ponds; these are usually surrounded by rushes (Juncus). These become filled with water during autumn and winter. The adults often fly low over the ground and frequently alight on plants. The eggs are laid by the female in succession on plant stems (often above the water) at the end of summer or in autumn. These eggs enter diapause, meaning they suspend their development to survive the winter and only hatch the following spring. The eggs hatch in spring, often around February, as small ‘prolarvae’. These then become aquatic larvae that grow very quickly – usually within two months – to keep pace with the drying up of the temporary pools. They feed on small aquatic invertebrates.