Local photographer unknowingly snaps second-ever sighting of rare dragonfly at Shropshire country park

A rare dragonfly sighting at Severn Valley Country Park has sparked excitement among wildlife enthusiasts after a local photographer unknowingly captured only the second recorded appearance of the species in Shropshire.

Shropshire Council rangers confirmed the discovery after Wai (Jimmy) Yau, a regular visitor to the Alveley‑based park, shared a series of images on the Severn Valley Country Park Wildlife Group Facebook page. The group, which has around 2,000 members, frequently posts sightings from across the 126‑acre site.

Group curator John Freshney spotted the unusual dragonfly in Jimmy’s photographs and suspected it could be something special. He sent the image to Sue Rees Evans, Shropshire County Recorder for the British Dragonfly Society, for expert verification.

After consulting colleagues, Sue confirmed the insect was a Scarce Chaser - a species rarely seen this far north. The only previous Shropshire record dates back to 2008 at Attingham Park.

Jimmy, who joined the online group in September last year, said he had no idea of the significance of his find: “When I posted the series of photographs which included the Scarce Chaser dragonfly, I wasn’t aware I had captured an image of such a rare species.

“I was happy to be able to share my photographs with the group and am delighted to hear it was only the second recorded sighting in Shropshire.

“A huge thank you to all the staff and volunteers for keeping such a wonderful place for everyone to enjoy.”

John Freshney, Group Admin and volunteer at Severn Valley Country Park. said:“Jimmy’s photograph was an incredible find and exciting addition to the list of things to watch out for when you visit the park.

“This year in May alone, members of the Group recorded 65 species of different birds, insects, butterflies and mammals across the park”

Edward Andrews, Shropshire Council’s parks and countryside manager, said the sighting highlighted the success of ongoing habitat management.

“It is fantastic to see new species taking up residence at Severn Valley Country Park,” he said.

“The site is a wonderful example of how nature can reclaim former industrial land.”

The park attracts around 160,000 visitors each year and has recently benefited from UKSPF funding, which has upgraded play areas and supported new facilities, including a reflection pool in the woodland bird hide and additional picnic benches.

The café and visitor centre are now open seven days a week from 8am to 5pm.