Damselfly Species Return to Restored Hertfordshire Woodlands
A three-year habitat restoration project has led to the return of two damselfly species and increased butterfly populations in seven nature reserves.
Two species of damselfly have been recorded in Hertfordshire woodlands for the first time following the completion of a three-year habitat restoration project. The Beautiful Demoiselle and Willow Emerald damselflies were spotted at Astonbury Wood, near Stevenage, a wildlife trust announced.
The work was part of the Ancient Astonbury and Wilder Woodlands project, which encompassed seven nature reserves across Hertfordshire. The project received a £162,698 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Throughout the summer of 2026, the restored areas also saw a significant increase in butterfly numbers, with Silver-washed Fritillaries recorded in much higher quantities than in previous years. This surge in insect life is attributed to the project's efforts to enhance the woodland environment, including planting more flowers.
Key interventions included transforming an ancient woodland area, roughly the size of a football pitch, back to coppice management. This technique involves repeatedly cutting trees near the ground, which allows more sunlight to reach the forest floor. The increased light encourages the growth of a diverse range of wildflowers, which in turn supports a greater abundance of insects and birdlife.
The seven nature reserves that benefited from the project are Astonbury Wood, Balls Wood near Hertford, Fir & Pond Woods near Potters Bar, Gobions Wood near Brookmans Park, Old Park Wood in Harefield, Long Deans in Hemel Hempstead, and Hawkins Wood between Buntingford and Royston.
This restoration work aims to revitalize these woodland ecosystems, creating healthier habitats for a variety of flora and fauna. The return of the damselfly species serves as a significant indicator of the project's success in improving biodiversity within the region.