Their aerial manoeuvres rival the fastest military aircraft as they duck and turn in pursuit of prey, or narrowly avoid the clutches of hungry hobbies. These adaptable insects lord over wetlands, moorland and even woodland glades, feeding on flies, midges and even each other. If you thought butterflies were the only insects worth a second glance, these multi-coloured, iridescent predators demand appreciation too.

There are 17 species of damselfly and 23 species of dragonfly resident in the UK, with the occasional visitor from continental Europe. Found in almost every habitat, these fearsome aerial predators bring a splash of colour just as wildflowers and butterflies are winding down.

Several species travel a long way away from water, fields and woodland edges - one of the greatest wanderers is the migrant hawker, which you can often find hunting along sheltered hedgerows during the summer months. 

And for the birdwatchers that hang up their binoculars before the big migration events of autumn, they provide another burst of wildlife watching activity to rival any bird flocks. 

Know the difference! As a general rule, the damselfly is slimmer, and rests with wings folded, while the stockier dragonfly keeps its wings spread outwards. The earliest damselflies are on the wing by early May, while the last common darter of the year might still be flying on a warm October day, with the highest species diversity found during July and August.

Dragonflies are found throughout Hampshire. Two fantastic Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust reserves to see them at this summer are Blashford Lakes and Sandown Meadows Nature Reserves.

Blashford Lakes is a hotspot for dragonflies, with species like the majestic emperor dragonfly and the bustling brown hawker thriving in the diverse lakes and wetland habitats. The idyllic ponds, lush reedbeds and picturesque meadows at Sandown Meadows on the Isle of Wight attract a wide variety of dragonflies, including the striking southern hawker and vibrant common darter.  

Like most insects, dragonflies are at their most active in warm sunny conditions, so pick your day to visit wisely. Binoculars will come in handy, as most will fly off if you get too close. And of course, take care at the water’s edge.