Skimmers

Libellulidae (skimmers): A large family found throughout the world, with around 25 species present in Northern and Central Europe. They are small to medium-sized. Skimmers use perches, which means they make short flights from a vantage point towards prey or an intruder. They rest horizontally, and egg-laying takes place in tandem, in pairs or alone. There is little difference in colouration between young males and females; the females can be distinguished by the fact that the appendages on their abdomen are slightly further apart, whereas in males they are almost touching.