On 21st July 2014, Paul Meredith found a red-eyed damselfly (Erythromma najas) at Nostell Pond (SE39701712) and this was the first time this species was recorded locally. At the time there was speculation that, because of the late date, it could have been a member of a breeding colony. As today was the first hot and sunny day after a very cold May,a search of the ponds was undertaken by Pete Smith and Ange Smith and they confirmed that there is a breeding colony of red-eyed damselfly at the site. 14 males and 4 mating pairs were seen on and around the waterlilies and algae patches.
Red-eyed damselfly is known to be spreading northwards very quickly over the past few years and it was only a matter of time before the species was recorded in the Wakefield area. Previously, good numbers of this beautiful species could be seen along the Pocklington Canal in York. It will be interesting to see where they are discovered next within the district.
red-eyed damselfly at Nostell Pond (Photo: Pete Smith)