What they need
- Freshwater is essential for their survival because that’s actually where they spend the vast majority of their lives. Some species live for years in a water-dwelling larval form called nymphs, emerging to spend mere weeks flying about in their adult form. The word ‘nymph’ might suggest something small and cute but the truth is they’re amongst the most fearsome predators of the pond, taking a range of prey including tadpoles and even fish.
- As adults, damselflies and dragonflies are voracious predators, feeding on mosquitoes, flies, and other small insects, and even each other!
- Adults’ main interest is breeding so males scout about for clean and healthy ponds to guard, ideally with a branch overhanging the water. They use this ‘dragonfly perch’ to guard their territory. Different species breed in different ways but the right planting is key to breeding success for many.
- As well as the dragonfly perch, erect stemmed plants with the roots under the water will be vital for some females to climb down to lay their eggs in the water.
What you can do to help
- Construct a well planted pond to provide a breeding ground for damselflies and dragonflies and a home for their long-lived nymphs. Plant native aquatic vegetation around the pond to offer shelter and egg-laying sites and create a dragonfly perch by ensuring a branch – living or dead – extends over the water.
- Minimise the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers to prevent ponds being contaminated. Protect ponds from pollutants that could run into them, and harm aquatic ecosystems.
- Choose predominantly native plants to go in and around the water. Underwater plants will keep the water clean and healthily oxygenated, essential for their nymphs and other pond life to survive, whilst emergent marginal plants will both support egg-laying females and feed a diverse range of their insect prey.
- You can definitely still help dragonflies and damselflies and attract them to your balcony if your outside space is above ground. A mini/container pond or any water feature could be essential for hydration on a hot dry day and any pollinator-friendly planting will support insects they may come hunting for.
Fascinating facts
- Both damselflies and dragonflies are agile flyers, capable of impressive aerial manoeuvres. They are admired for their ability to hover, fly backwards, and even catch prey mid-air with their legs.
- Dragonflies have been around for millions of years and are among the oldest known insect species on Earth. Fossil records suggest that they have changed very little in terms of their appearance and behaviour over time.
Find out more
The British Dragonflies website provides a helpful guide to both groups.
