Britain's official guide to canals, rivers and lakes

Saturday 6th September 2008

Dragonfly

Dragonflies have long, thick bodies with four wings and two large eyes (which take up most of the head!) After a few days into adult life, they develop a jewel-like colour.

Did you know?

  • Dragonflies have almost 360 degree vision;
  • They fly at almost 30mph, making them the fastest insects in the UK – they can also hover, fly forwards, backwards, sideways and change direction and very quickly;
  • Fossil records show that the dragonfly has been around for 300 million years – even before dinosaurs roamed the earth;
  • Dragonflies are a great sign of good water quality and are generally found close to ponds, lakes, canals, rivers etc;
  • They will not attack or bite you and have no sting at all.

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Take part in British Waterways' 2008 National Wildlife Survey