Scotland's midge set to face new foe - thanks to project to restore rare dragonflies

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Dragonflies which gobble pesky midges are set for a boost in Scotland thanks to a new nature project.Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is teaming up with the British Dragonfly Society to create new pond habitats for the colourful endangered beasties.The scheme will aim to protect the population of some of the rarest dragonflies in Britain, including three species which only breed in Scotland.Researchers will look at how many new ponds should be built, and which existing ponds need enhanced amid the impacts of climate change.They’ll also explore how restoring peatland bogs could also help the critters.Daniele Muir, Scotland conservation officer of the British Dragonfly Society, said: “Because FLS land is home to so many of Britain’s rarest species, we have an opportunity to make a huge impact.“Climate change means many of our rare dragonflies are already struggling, their homes are shallow pools that are dying out.“These beautiful creatures have been around since the time of the dinosaurs and it’s vital we protect them.“We’ll be working with FLS to train their ecologists and foresters on survey techniques and provide practical advice on enhancing land for dragonflies.”Ms Muir will lead a team to investigate FLS dragonfly sites over the next few months as part of a mission to “repond Scotland”.She’ll advise where new ponds could be created, or if existing ponds should be enhanced to help dragonflies.Kenny Kortland, wildlife ecologist for FLS, said: “At some existing ponds we might simply cut back surrounding trees so there’s less shade.“That will make the water warmer for dragonflies, and better for breeding.“Creating new ponds will be part of the work, and that will be specific to each site and dragonfly species."He added: