Aeshna isoceles

The Norfolk hawker, scientifically known as Aeshna isoceles, is predominantly found in the wetlands of Norfolk and Suffolk in eastern England. It thrives in unpolluted, weed-rich dykes and fens with plenty of aquatic vegetation. Outside of the UK, it can also be found across parts of Europe, particularly in marshes around the Mediterranean.

Aeshna isoceles is notable for its striking green eyes, clear wings, and a distinctive, wedge-shaped yellow mark on its abdomen. Unlike other hawkers, it lacks the dark bands across its wings. Its bright, golden-brown body makes it relatively easy to identify in its natural habitat.

The flight season for the Norfolk hawker typically runs from late May through to August. This is slightly earlier in the summer than many other dragonfly species found in the United Kingdom. They are most active during warm, sunny days when they hunt smaller insects over the water.

While it is not globally endangered, the Norfolk hawker is heavily protected in the UK due to its highly restricted range. It is primarily isolated to the Norfolk Broads, making it vulnerable to habitat loss. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the clean, unpolluted ditch networks essential for its breeding.