As well as the diagnostic broad, 'feathery' white legs, it generally has a paler blue body to help distinguish it from the other blue damselflies. The pale chestnut wing spots are also characteristic. Immature males and females are mostly creamy white (form lactea). Females take on a very pale green colour on maturity.
This damselfly favours slow moving rivers and canals with luxuriant vegetation.
It can be seen from mid May to mid August.
The males engage in a courtship display to woo the female, raising its front white legs in front of the female as part of the act.
In Britain it is found in mainly lowland areas, up to the Midlands. It is uncommon but can become locally frequent.
