Ceriagrion tenellum (de Villers, 1789)

Small species (25-35 mm in lenght). Male's abdomen is completely red and eyes, legs and pterostigma feature a red coloration, varying in intensity. Females are slightly longer than males and can be in four types with more or less red on the head and abdomen. It has no post-ocular spots. 

This is a later species if compared to P. nymphula (the only other red damselfly in our area) and it flies from the end of May to September. 

Small streams and seepages, but northwards in its range in bogs too. In the Cuneo region it can be found also in small lakes and ponds, along the banks. 

This species is widespread on the western part of Europe and in northern Africa. It is rarer eastwards beyond Italy. In the Cuneo region it can be found in plain and hill suitable habitats, but it does not enter in alpine valleys.