The thorax has three pairs of legs and two pairs of wing.

All British species require aquatic habitats for breeding and all are predatory feeders in both the larval and adult stages.

Dragonflies fall into two categories, those called dragonflies, the Anisoptera, are generally larger and more robust than the damselfies, or Zygoptera, which are more delicate in build.

The adult dragonfly usually lays its eggs in plant tissue in or near water, or scatters them on the water surface. The eggs hatch into larvae which live in the water for generally one to five years depending on the species. When fully grown they climb up out of the water on a suitable support such as reeds or rushes, where they take a firm grasp before the dragonfly breaks through the larval skin.

Once the wings have fully expanded and hardened, the dragonfly flies away from the water to mature. The larval skin wich is left behind is known as an exuvia, from which the dragonfly that emerged can be identified.

There are 56 species of dragonflies on the British list, which includes migrant species.

In Kent there are currently 35 species, 29 of which have been proven to breed.

If you have a pond, look for the larval skins on the plants round the edge of the pond during the months from May to September.

It would be very helpful if you could send or take these to the Records Centre at Tyland Barn.

A small container, such as a photographic film tub is ideal for putting the cast skins in, and include your name, the date you found the cast skins and your postcode.

Photographs of dragonflies can also be identified by experts at the Records Centre. Again, make a note of the date and place, and give your name.