Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum

This is arguably Europe's most abundant dragonfly, showing up in ponds, lakes, marshes, and ditches everywhere. What makes it truly remarkable is its calendar-defying survival strategy: in the warm southern parts of its range, adults remain active year-round—an adaptation that lets them avoid seasonal competition and extend their breeding season. The name 'darter' perfectly describes their rapid, jerky flight style. These reliable hunters are often the first dragonflies beginners learn to identify.