Dragonfly Freshwater Indicator and Conservation

Dragonfly diversity is used as an indicator of freshwater ecosystem health and welfare of associated aquatic communities.

Key Facts

Dragonfly larvae are sensitive to organic pollution and require well-oxygenated freshwater
44 of 57 European dragonfly species are found in the UK, with range expansions occurring in warming conditions
Specialist species including White-faced Darter and Large White-faced Darter are restricted to pristine bogs
The British Dragonfly Society runs annual monitoring surveys tracking population trends
Habitat creation including new ponds and restored river margins benefits multiple dragonfly species

Welfare Considerations

Dragonfly populations reflect the overall health of freshwater ecosystems. Declines signal deteriorating water quality, habitat loss and thermal disruption that affect all aquatic life. Protecting dragonfly habitat protects entire aquatic welfare communities including fish, amphibians and invertebrates that depend on clean freshwater.

What You Can Do

Create a garden pond to support dragonfly breeding near your home
Submit dragonfly sightings to the British Dragonfly Society survey
Advocate for clean water targets and river restoration programmes
Support Buglife's campaign for living rivers and sustainable water management