Orthetrum cancellatum (Linnaeus, 1758)

Biggest species in the Orthetrum genus. Juveniles and females are yellow with a typical black “grid” at the sides. With age females become olive or brown colored and males develop a pale blue abdomen, almost black at the tip. The thorax is brown. Unlike its congeners, the eyes are dark green. The pterostigma is black.

It flies from May to August-September.

This species prefers open and sunny water surfaces. Very often adults rest in the surrounding areas on rocks or sand.

Widespread in most of the Palearctic, except in northern Russia, Scandinavia and British Isles. Widespread in suitable areas in the plain and hills of the Cuneo region.