The Scarlet Darter or Broad Scarlet Crocothemis erythrea (la Libellule Écarlate in France) is a common dragonfly in southern Europe, throughout Africa and also much of Asia. The species is strongly migratory and there have been occasional sightings of this striking insect in the UK. The vernacular names are really only applicable to the mature males as the females and immatures are yellow-brown and in the case of the former the body becomes duller with age. The dragonflies are robust and their abdomens are broad and flat as indicated by the most recently applied common name. The males are a much brighter shade of red than those of the smaller Sympetrum darters and they are therefore easily separated in the field. Although easily disturbed Scarlet Darters have a tendency to return to favoured perches, often to consume prey items. Close views may therefore be obtained by adopting a stealthy approach without making any sudden movements and by avoiding casting any shadows over the subject - a good strategy for all dragonfly-watching.
