A rare dragonfly at a nature reserve in Bexley is making headlines after finally finding a mate.
The rare Lesser Emperor Dragonfly has been observed at Thames Water's Crossness Nature Reserve for the last three years, and for the first time a pair has been spotted during mating season.
The sighting is vital for the UK dragonfly conservation effort, and has attracted the attention of conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts.
Two members of the Friends of Crossness Nature Reserve membership scheme discovered the dragonflies while out photographing the wide variety of animals and plants that can be found at the wildlife haven.
Bernie Weight, who photographed the dragonflies, said: “I’ve been visiting the reserve for a number of years now as it’s a great place to view wildlife and spend time away from the bustling city.
"Being able to find and photograph the Lesser Emperor Dragonfly really shows Crossness is an important habitat where animals and insects can thrive. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy nature, I’d recommend Crossness!”
The discovery of two Lesser Emperor Dragonflies together during mating season is great news as the species is classed as a rare UK breeder, so the sighting provides photographic evidence of the insects attempting to breed in the area.
The special record has been submitted to both the London and Kent county recorders of the British Dragonfly Society.
Karen Sutton, Crossness Nature Reserve manager, said: “This is a fantastic find and shows how important the reserve is for conserving wildlife and for the other rare species that call it home.
"Not everyone knows about our fantastic nature reserves and wetlands in London, that are open to the public throughout the year."
The south east London reserve is one of the last remaining areas of grazing marshland in Greater London is home to over 200 species of bird, and Britain’s fastest declining mammal, the water vole.
It is also home to England's rarest bee, the shrill carder bee, and has viewing screens overlooking the wet meadow, deep water lagoons and horse-grazed grasslands offer visitors the chance to watch barn owls, kestrels, and buzzards.
Talking about the value of nature reserves, Ms Sutton added: “They really offer something for everyone from fishing to wildlife spotting and nature walks.
"Last year showed us how important access to green spaces and nature is for people’s physical and mental wellbeing. Crossness is just the place for our customers to Live Wild and enjoy a great day out.”
Last month Thames Water launched its ‘Live Wild’ campaign to encourage customers to visit its public access wetlands, reservoirs, and nature reserves, such as Crossness.
The campaign highlights the great days out on customers' doorsteps and the wellbeing benefits green outdoor spaces and wildlife bring to communities.
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