The Natural History of Ireland’s Dragonflies

Dragonflies are regarded by many as the jewels of the insect world. For centuries, they have been revered by humans and celebrated in art, poetry and religion. Today, they are very popular with naturalists and photographers, appreciated for their beauty and exceptional ability on the wing.

In this comprehensive study of the Irish fauna, covers all aspects of dragonfly biology and ecology and the history of dragonfly study in Ireland. There are comprehensive accounts of all the resident and migrant species, an in-depth description of the major odonate habitats and a gallery section illustrating photographically and describing over fifty sites in detail throughout Ireland. Additional chapters include ‘Fieldcraft’, ‘Conservation’, ‘Where to watch odonates’ and ‘Photography’. There is also an extensive bibliography listing all currently known publications.

The highly informative text is written for the keen naturalist, biologist, photographer and those wishing to garner a greater understanding and appreciation of these magnificent wetland insects. This high-quality publication is lavishly illustrated throughout, with over three hundred outstanding colour photographs of habitats, larvae (some of which have rarely been photographed) and adults (male & female) of all the resident and migrant species found in Ireland.

ISBN: 978 0900761454

National Museums Northern Ireland