This atlas is based upon ‘The Dragonflies of Staffordshire’ by Neil Collingwood and published by the Staffordshire Biological Recording Scheme (Publ. 18, 1997; ISBN: 1 874414 22X). The major differences between the two are:
Although SER only covers modern Staffordshire, the majority of records for the wider vice-county (VC39) are also included.
The Dragonfly Recording Scheme in Staffordshire was originally set up by Neil Collingwood, but he has since retired and the post of County Recorder is overseen by David Jackson, who can be contacted at jacksongrus@talktalk.net. Please send any records preferably accompanied by a verifying photograph to David at this e-mail address.
The dragonflies include the largest insects found in Britain. This is not intended as a comprehensive guide to dragonflies, however, as one of the most primitive of insect groups they all bear two pairs of membraneous, usually transparent, highly veined wings. The thorax is short and compact, whilst the abdomen is long and thin, although somewhat flattened and broader in some groups.
Dragonflies can be distinguished from damselflies by several fairly constant differences:
in recent years, a number of very good books have been produced on dragonflies, particularly identification.
Corbet, PS Longfield, C & Moore, NW (1960) Dragonflies; New Naturalist Series, Collins
Not an identification guide, but a detailed discussion of the habit and life cycles of dragonflies.
Hammond, CO (1983) The Dragonflies of Great Britain and Ireland (2nd Ed.) Harley Books
This is an updated edition of the definitive guide to British dragonflies, beautifully illustrated throughout with paintings and including detailed keys for identification.
McGeeney, A (1986) A Complete Guide to British Dragonflies Jonathan Cape
A book fully illustrated with photographs and including keys to the identification of adults and nymphs.
Miller, PL (1995) Dragonflies; Naturalists’ Handbook Series, Richmond Publishing
A small easily used fieldguide, illustrated with paintings.
