90 Varieties of Dragonflies Are the Stars of This Show

	Click on image to enlarge. USFWS photo

The annual Dragonfly Festival at the Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico on August 27-28 will highlight the 90 varieties of dragonflies and damselflies (odonates) that populate the refuge. Visitors of all ages can appreciate this remarkable diversity through tours of the refuge, slide shows, and displays.

Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge has gained widespread fame for supporting one of the most diverse populations of dragonflies and damselflies in North America. Among them are the continent’s largest and smallest dragonfly species.

The Dragonfly Festival is held during the peak viewing time of the year for these brilliantly-colored insects, which are also best viewed during the midday. Dragonfly experts will lead tours in the refuge’s backcountry for visitors, who are advised to bring binoculars and a field guide. Other activities will include hourly slide shows, exhibits, and children’s activities.

For more information, contact Steve Alvarez, Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge, (505) 622-6755, ext. 4009.