Hotspot Project

Dragonfly Hotspots are special places, carefully chosen because they support a good variety of dragonfly and damselfly species, are easy to access, and can provide opportunities for local communities to learn about dragonflies and get involved with dragonfly conservation and events.

Campfield Marsh is an excellent regional site for Odonata and has good numbers of nationally declining species. The large pond and avenue near the visitor centre have proved to be good for Emperor Dragonfly and Migrant Hawkers, recent arrivals in North Cumbria. The peatbog habitat is naturally the place to encounter the Common Hawker, Black Darter and Emerald Damselfly. Earlier this year, the site began the reintroduction of the White-faced Darter – find out more about this exciting conservation project here.

What’s On

Explore the reserve with experts to learn about dragonfly identification, their fascinating life cycle and where to find them. The day will be jam-packed with exciting activities.

11:00-12:30/13:00

Guided dragonfly walk (2.5 miles). Booking required (email: events@british-dragonlies.org.uk)

All day

• Pond dipping (drop-in)
• Dragonfly craft activities for families
• Spotter sheets of the species to see on site
• Knowledgeable guides on hand for any questions

The Hotspot launch coincides with a reserve open day, with refreshments available and the opportunity to learn more about the other wildlife and conservation activities at Campfield Marsh.

A new interpretation board will be installed on site providing an insight into the dragonflies and damselflies that call Campfield Marsh their home.

Site Information

Please see the RSPB Campfield Marsh page for information on site accessibility, facilities, and other wildlife you can see on site.

Image by Rosser