Delhi’s seven biodiversity parks recorded 11,154 dragonflies and damselflies in a survey, down from 13,253 in 2025, with erratic rains and dry conditions contributing to a marginal dip in their diversity and numbers, officials said.
Speaking about the survey outcomes, entomologist Mohd. “This year, a new species seen in DDA Aravalli Biodiversity Park was the Yellow-tailed Ashy Skimmer (Potamarcha congener). We also had an interesting sighting in the form of the Blue Grass Dart for the first time in Yamuna Biodiversity Park,” he added. Yellow-tailed Ashy Skimmers perch on dry twigs near ephemeral ponds and marshes, while the Blue Grass Dart is seen perching on water plants in lakes and in marshes with well-developed vegetation along the banks. The presence of these dragonflies indicates a healthy ecosystem. Odonatans are characterised by large round heads, compound eyes, two pairs of long, transparent wings and elongated abdomens. Some of the most commonly seen species across the seven biodiversity parks include the Scarlet Skimmer, Ditch Jewel, Wandering Glider, Coromandel Marsh Dart and Ruddy Marsh Skimmer.
Faisal said that there had been a minor dip in the diversity as well as density of dragonflies, adding, “Delhi has seen erratic rains and adverse weather conditions with an increase in dry areas and a lack of formation of water pools in biodiversity parks. These insects form a part of the “odonata” family.
Last year, it was observed for the first time in Yamuna Biodiversity Park, so its range has increased.
