LAST MINUTE REGISTRATION: Contact Bert at bharris@cliftoninstitute.org if you’d like to join the count.
Join us for our second annual Dragonfly Count! Our goals are to learn which species of dragonflies and damselflies are found in our area, to monitor changes in their populations, and to encourage everyone to learn more about Odonates.
The map of the count circle is here. The circle includes a wide variety of aquatic habitats, including a sphagnum bog, fish-free marshes, lakes with abundant lily pads, and a variety of clean streams and rivers that range from tiny seeps all the way up to the Rappahannock River. This interesting area has not received as much study as nearby northern Virginia, but 72 species of dragonflies and damselflies have already been documented inside the circle. In 2021, we found 51 species of dragonflies and damselflies, including Sphagnum Sprite, Appalachian Jewelwing, three species of spreadwings, Gray Petaltail, Comet Darner, Yellow-sided Skimmer, and probable Rapids Clubtail. Who knows what else we’ll find this year!
We will divide the circle up into several areas, which teams of people will cover, similar to a Christmas Bird Count or NABA butterfly count. We will let you know where to meet closer to the date. The count is open to people of all experience levels. We welcome dragonfly experts as well as anyone who is interested in learning about these fascinating insects.
This event is free but registration is required. Email Bert Harris (bharris@cliftoninstitute.org) with any questions or if you would like to lead one of the teams.
Please let us know if you live inside the count circle and you have a fish-free pond or marsh or a pond with lily pads or other emergent aquatic vegetation on your property that you would like to be included in the count.
Ages: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
What to wear: It will be hot and we’ll be spending time near or in the water. Shorts and sturdy sandals or rubber boots are usually best, but long pants can come in handy as well.
What to bring: Sunscreen, sun hat, binoculars, camera, insect net, plenty of water.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors. We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during bad weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We are partnering with the Fauquier County Parks and Recreation Department, Goose Creek Association, Virginia Outdoors Foundation, and White House Farm Foundation on this event.
