Scarce Chaser vs Black Darter
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Scarce Chaser | Black Darter |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Libellula fulva | Sympetrum danae |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 55-60 mm wingspan | 29-34mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Scarce Chaser
A medium-sized dragonfly where mature males develop a powdery blue abdomen. It is associated with clean, slow-flowing rivers with abundant marginal vegetation.
Did You Know?
Despite its name, the scarce chaser has become increasingly common in parts of Europe as water quality in rivers has improved.
Black Darter
Britain s smallest dragonfly where mature males become entirely jet black, unique among European dragonflies. Females and immatures are yellow with black markings. It prefers acidic boggy habitats.
Did You Know?
Males are the only entirely black dragonfly in Europe, making them unmistakable at acidic bog pools.