HAVE YOU SEEN
THE BANDED DEMOISELLE ?

The Banded Demoiselle is one of the most charismatic species of damselfly in Britain. The last comprehensive map showing its distribution in the British Isles dates back to 1996. So, ten years on, the opportunity to update the records by taking part in a UK-wide internet survey is very exciting!

The British Dragonfly Society (BDS) joined forces with the Royal Entomological Society (RES) to launch the Banded Demoiselle Survey in National Insect Week, Monday 19th to Sunday 25th June 2006. Everybody can take part in the survey. All you need to do is go to the British Dragonfly Society website, look at pictures of the Banded Demoiselle and learn how to identify it following easy steps. Then print out the recording sheet and choose a warm sunny day to walk along a river, canal, or by a pond. If you see the Banded Demoiselle write down the details (where you were, how many adults you saw flying around, etc) and when you get back home, send them to the BDS on the website.

Caroline Daguet, Conservation Officer for BDS says, “We hope that as many people as possible will take part in the Banded Demoiselle Survey. It’s a great opportunity to gather records from all over the UK in a fun and easy way. The results could bring crucial information as to the health of the Banded Demoiselle populations, whether they have suffered any decline or spread to new areas over the last decade. The website contains clear information and colourful photographs of the species; if people still have questions about the survey after visiting the website, they can contact me on 01743 282 021. Please take part in the survey if you can!”

Banded Demoiselles are very conspicuous damselflies with a dark patch on their wings, and a butterfly-like fluttering flight. Depending on the light, their body reflects a fantastic blue or green metallic shine. They are mostly seen flying just above the water’s surface and on the vegetation bordering rivers, canals, ponds, etc.