Variable damselfly

The variable damselfly, also known as the variable bluet, is a captivating European insect distinguished by its diverse patterning, which can be quite variable despite its name. If you are familiar with the azure damselfly, you will notice that the variable damselfly exhibits some similar behaviors. Both species tend to frequent areas dense with vegetation, and immature variable damselflies are often seen in meadows or grassy regions.

One of the most straightforward ways to identify a male variable damselfly is by looking for a distinctive “wine glass” marking on the second segment of its abdomen. This unique mark helps to distinguish it from the azure damselfly. In terms of distribution, this species is found throughout Europe. While it is scattered and relatively uncommon in mainland Britain, the situation is quite different in Ireland, where the variable damselfly is widespread and fairly common.