Krkonoše National Park reports sightings of heat-loving dragonfly

Administrators of the Krkonoše National Park (KRNAP) have recorded over twenty sightings of the heat-loving dragonfly, Libellula depressa, within the mountain range. While most observations occurred in the lower and middle elevations of the park's protective zone, several notable findings were made at higher altitudes.

Significant sightings were reported at elevations above 900 meters, including locations near Lysečinská bouda and Karlov in Pec pod Sněžkou, both at 950 meters. The highest recorded sighting occurred at the edge of the Labský důl at 1,350 meters. Experts suggest that an exceptionally warm summer likely allowed the insects to develop into adults despite the harsh mountain conditions.

Scientists link the northward and upward movement of this species, which was previously typical only for southern Moravia, to climate change. While these sightings indicate a shift in distribution, officials noted it is not yet certain if a stable population has been established in these high-altitude areas. The data was gathered through hundreds of public reports following a call for citizen science observations.