Dragonfly Spotting and Identification

Dragonfly Spotting and Identification

Join us for this workshop and expert-led tour, exploring the Forest of Flowers nature reserve at peak dragonfly season with the help of our guide, Keith Gittens (Chairman, Yorkshire Dragonfly Group).

We've seen dragonfly and damselfly numbers dramatically increase as the woodland and wildflower habitat has developed. Our 18 ponds already have a large and diverse population, offering 

important wetland habitat which allows dragonflies to thrive.

During the afternoon, we'll look at:

- Dragonfly and damselfly species present at the Forest of Flowers

- Identification tips

- Types of habitat - host and food plant species, and how to support dragonflies in your area

After an initial talk, a guided tour will let you observe our dragonflies in their natural habitat and develop your identification skills. We expect to see a wide range of species, including:

- Broad-bodied Chaser

- Emperor

- Black-tailed Skimmer

- Banded Demoiselle

- Blue-tailed Damselfly

Overall, we've recorded 7 species of dragonfly, and 8 species of damselfly on-site.

Refreshments and homemade cakes will be provided after the session.

Please note:

• Our walk will be approximately 1-2 miles through flat but uneven terrain -  we recommend sturdy footwear such as walking boots.
• Sightings are not guaranteed as dragonfly activity is very weather-dependant.

About Forest of Flowers

The Forest of Flowers project has created 74 acres of new woodland and wildflower meadows, with the sole aim to provide a thriving natural sanctuary for wildlife.

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The land, previously a mixed arable and sheep farm, was re-purposed in 2016 when over 42,000 trees and shrubs were planted, alongside 35 native wildflower species. This is part of a vision to create a thriving ecosystem to benefit pollinators, birds and a diverse range of native wildlife. As well as a focus on increased biodiversity, the project supports:

• Carbon capture to reduce the effects of climate change.
• Prevention of flooding in the local area.
• UK wildflower population, providing seeds from the meadows to other sites nationwide.

All ticket sales will support our conservation work here on the Forest of Flowers nature reserve. Thank you!

Tickets are limited and booking is essential.

Visitor Comments from Previous Events

"Thank you for a most enjoyable, relaxing, varied and informative event. It was a very special, unique and memorable afternoon. The structure was excellent as it was so varied and the activities linked together so well. We were made to feel welcome from the moment we arrived and the setting under the gazebo in the orchard was absolutely perfect... and your friendly cat was an added bonus!"

"From our perspective it was just the right balance, giving people a chance to learn, share their stories, mix with others, ask questions. As always, your knowledge and enthusiasm shone through and I’m sure everyone found the afternoon useful and interesting."