The rare Southern Emerald Damselfly has been spotted this week by one of our reserve wardens, and confirmed by photographs posted via our online "submit a sighting" form.

Gunners Park warden Andrew Armstrong spotted the damselfly sheltering in the SSSI, and reported the sighting, which was verified by an expert within days.

The damselfly, latin name Lestes barbarus, is a rare vagrant that was first recorded in mainland Britain in 2002. It is mainly a Mediterranean species but can be seen along South and South-east coasts, and appears to be on the verge of colonising mainland Britain.

Have you seen damselflies or dragonflies in Essex this summer? Please let us know by clicking the link above (login required), or emailing records@essexwt.org.uk. Please attach a photograph for identification purposes.