Having looked at the http://www.british-dragonflies.org.uk/ site I think Southern Hawker is the most likely from the descriptions, esp as it was buzzing the crowd of 25 people along a woodland ride in the gloom at 8.30pm. I worked in the Mersey Valley for years and never saw this one!
I was leading a walk at Urmston Meadows last night and towards the end we came across a large hawker dragonfly in the woods along the bridleway section. It wasn't a Brown Hawker, and having seen Emperor at Sale Water Park on Monday I told everyone that's what is was. But on reflection (and looking at some pics) I wonder if it was more green than blue...so female Emperor or maybe A cyanea or juncea? Anyone know what's around at the moment? Steve S, did you get a look at it?
Mike
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 7th of August 2022 06:39:41 AM