Dragonflies and damselflies are amazing insects that can be found hovering over garden and wild ponds. They can fly enormous distances, spin on their own axis and fly backwards!
These beautiful winged insects can be found in many colours, and won’t harm or sting you. But lots of their habitats have disappeared in the last 400 years, meaning they need our help.
Larger dragonflies have large eyes, and are strong fliers that rest their wings at right angles to their bodies. Smaller damselflies have slower flight, and rest their wings close to their (slender) tummies!
Preserve Our Wetlands
The best way to help dragonflies and damselflies is to preserve remaining wetlands (their natural homes). In 1637, East Anglia had 3,380 square kilometres of wetland. In 1986 there was just 10 square kilometres left.
A Book on Dragonfly-Friendly Gardening
Dragonfly-Friendly Gardening is a book by one of England’s top dragonfly experts, who also founded a dragonfly sanctuary. It features information on how these lovely creatures are vital to ecosystems, and you’ll also learn of their stunning colours and phenomenal flying abilities.
If you garden alongside animal friends, learn how to make your garden safe for pets.
Don’t Buy Peat Compost
Peat compost (still legal to sell) nearly always harvested from land that used to be habitat for dragonflies and damselflies (and endangered butterflies).
Removing it (which is also done by the hunting industry) removes uneven land that soaks up rain. So retaining peat helps prevent floods.
Build Wildlife-Friendly Ponds
Beyond wetlands, garden ponds are a good way to provide natural habitats for dragonflies, damselflies and many other creatures. Read our post on creating wildlife-friendly ponds.
To keep wildlife safe, ensure ponds have sloping sides (and never use netting anywhere in gardens, as it can trap birds & other creatures).