Crocothemis erythraea (Brullé, 1832)

Males are unmistakable thanks to the bright red coloration. Females can vary from ochre to pale brown and have a striking pale band on the back, between their wings. Length is 40-45 mm and wingspan 65-70 mm. Both sexes feature a large yellow patch at the base of the hindwing, smaller at the base of the forewing. The abdomen is broad and the legs are not black colored.

Flight period ranges from the end of May to September.

This species lives in still water areas, often rich in underwater vegetation. It can be found also in oxbow lakes and small lakes originated from abandoned sand quarries.

This species comes from the warm areas of southern Europe, Africa and Middle East and recently spread remarkably its range, likely benefiting of climate change. Northwards it reaches already northern Germany. In the Cuneo region it is widespread, sometimes with abundant populations, in suitable wetlands in the plain. Individuals in dispersal were found at more than 1800 meters above sea level.