Wicken Fen to launch National Dragonfly Week

Dragonfly week

A fun programme of Dragonfly activities for all the family is planned including guided dragonfly safaris, larva-feeding demonstrations, pond dipping, work sheet activities and dragonfly crafts.

Wicken Fen is one of the best locations in the United Kingdom to spot Dragonflies with 21 species such as the Emperor Dragonfly, Hairy Dragonfly, Emerald Damselfly and Red Eyed Damselfly breeding on the fen. On a warm summers day thousands of these beautiful highly coloured insects can be seen performing their aerobatic flying displays along the waterways and ditches.

The Fen is also home to the National Dragonfly Centre. The centre which is open at weekends throughout the summer is staffed by knowledgeable enthusiasts and houses colourful displays and interpretation on dragonflies. The centre also offers a regular programme of events from dragonfly safaris to introductory and advanced dragonfly courses.

Today's dragonfly species are closely related to the huge insects that flew over our forests 300 million years ago. Most of the dragonflies' life cycle is spent underwater first as an egg and then a larva. The larval stage can last two years or more, whilst flying adults mostly only survive a couple of weeks.

Wetland habitats such as Wicken Fen are very important for dragonflies, which are in decline nationally. The loss of wetland habitat due to development and intensive agriculture, together with run-off and wind drift from insecticides and herbicides is having a devastating effect on the dragonfly population.

All activities for Dragonfly Day are free. Normal admission fees to Wicken Fen Nature Reserve apply. Entry is free to National Trust members.