Guernsey’s Nature Commission is hoping we’ll help gather data on particular species of damselflies and dragonflies, to help fill gaps in existing records.
The Commission has launched the ‘Damsels and Dragons Citizen Science Project’ which asks people to survey a pond of their choice either as a one off or throughout the season long survey between May and September.
Anyone taking part will also need to track additional information such as the size of the pond, the species seen, and the number seen for a predetermined time period, which will be dependent on the pond’s size.
A spokesperson for the Nature Commission, said the insects are vitally important in the food chain so we need more data on them.
“Dragonflies and damselflies are predatory flying insects, found mainly in freshwater habitats but also woodland and hedgerow habitats.
“They are an important part of the food web, controlling pest species and providing food for lots of birds.”
Citizen Science relies on support of the community.
If enough people collect the data, which is then collated by the Nature Commission, it will help build a more comprehensive picture of what the local numbers look like.
“Despite only having around seven species of dragonfly and damselfly which breed on Guernsey, and any additional migrant species that might turn up, there are not many records for this species group,” said the Commission.
“So, we’ve created a citizen project specifically to monitor these fascinating species, called Damsels and Dragons.”
You can find out more information about the project on the Nature Commission website.
Anyone interested in attending a training session on identification should contact the Nature Commission.