Odonata (Dragonflies & Damselflies)
There are over 50 species of dragonflies and damselflies recorded in the British Isles, however the biodiversity decreases towards the north of Scotland with only 18 species breeding in the Highland region. Ten species have been recorded in the Outer Hebrides; of which, seven are common and widely distributed. The golden-ringed dragonfly and the emerald damselfly are both very scarce, and there is only a single record of the vagrant Emperor, a rare migrant from sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East.
The Odonata is divided into two suborders: Dragonflies (Anisoptera) and Damselflies (Zygoptera).
Dragonflies usually rest with the wings open, held away from the body and the hind wings are usually shorter and broader than forewings. Generally they are large, strongly flying insects that can often be found away from water.
Damselflies are smaller and more delicate and usually found near water. The wings are equal in size and shape, and most species close the wings along the length of the abdomen when resting.