The winter damsels (genus: Sympecma) are members of the only genus of damselflies that live as adults in the winter. Recent pictures have been posted on Facebook of specimens frozen to posts only to wake in the Spring feed and breed. There are two species in northern Europe neither of which breeds in UK; probably our damp wet winters don't suit it.
One species does occur in Spain (Sympecma fusca), even way down in the south where the winters are very mild. There are very no observations of winter activity; surely they must fly and feed or they would simply starve.
Another mystery - any observations gratefully received.
One species does occur in Spain (Sympecma fusca), even way down in the south where the winters are very mild. There are very no observations of winter activity; surely they must fly and feed or they would simply starve.
Another mystery - any observations gratefully received.