Southern Hawker Dragonfly
You’ve found the Southern Hawker Dragonfly! Known for its striking green and blue markings, this agile flyer patrols ponds and wetlands, feeding on midges, mosquitoes, and other insects. A true predator of the skies, it helps keep bug populations in balance.
Keep exploring below to learn more — and don’t forget to scroll to the bottom to get involved in our Bug Hunt Challenge. Crack the code, and you could win a private animal experience for four people at Bugtopia — a wild adventure you won’t forget!
Swooping in — here comes a sky-high hunter!
Dragonflies are aerial acrobats with long, colourful bodies and two pairs of strong wings. They start life in the water as fierce nymphs, spending up to two years there before emerging as adults. Adult dragonflies are incredibly skilled hunters, feeding on midges, flies, and even other insects in flight.
Why They Matter
Dragonflies are among the most successful predators in the animal kingdom, catching up to 95% of the prey they chase. They help control biting insects like mosquitoes and are also key indicators of clean, unpolluted water.
Threats They Face
Pollution, habitat loss, and climate change affect the ponds and wetlands dragonflies need to live and breed. Without clean water, these beautiful insects can’t survive.
How You Can Help
– Create or protect a pond or wetland in your garden or local area.
– Avoid pesticides, which harm aquatic life and their insect prey.
– Learn to identify dragonflies, you might be surprised by how many species live nearby!
Building a Wild Garden Helps!
Even small, wild areas with native plants and water can support dragonflies and many other species.
Fun fact!
Did you know?
Some dragonfly species can fly backwards, hover like a helicopter, and even migrate long distances.
Explore the wonders of the natural world at Bugtopia!
A whole lot more than just bugs… Find your WILD side with a visit to Bugtopia.
Step into a world of nature at Bugtopia Hornsea Zoo. Walk through our Jungle Trail and get up close to fascinating animals, incredible invertebrates, and lush tropical plants from around the world.
Our immersive Tropical House lets you see free-roaming creatures in a natural setting, from butterflies and birds to stick insects and reptiles. Join our expert-led Animal Encounters to learn more and even handle some of our amazing residents.
Your ticket gives you all-day access, so take your time, explore, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience at Bugtopia.
See signage on arrival for confirmation of the days timetable. Please note Encounters timetables are subject to change due to staffing and animal welfare. See signage on arrival or check our latest Facebook posts for up to date information.
Join the Bug Hunt Challenge!
Explore the village and track down all six hidden bugs! Each one holds a clue — collect them all to reveal a six-letter secret word.
Once you’ve cracked the code, head over to Bugtopia and share the secret word to enter our prize draw. You could win a private animal experience for four people — a unique chance to get up close and personal with some of our amazing creatures. Who knows, you might even overcome a fear or two along the way!
