Anything With Wings
From Dragonflies to Butterflies
The Anything With Wings (AWW) project is an ongoing field research initiative at Westcave focused on documenting and monitoring dragonfly and butterfly populations throughout the preserve. Originally launched as part of the Migratory Dragonfly Partnership- a national Citizen Science program tracking five key migratory dragonfly species (Common Green Darner, Variegated Meadowhawk, Black Saddlebags, Wandering Glider, and Spot-Winged Glider)- the project at Westcave has since expanded in both scope and purpose.
Over time, survey data began to reflect a decline in dragonfly sightings, a trend likely linked to regional drought conditions affecting aquatic habitats critical for dragonfly development. Recognizing the value of both presence and absence data, the research continues to track changes in population and biodiversity.
In 2023, the project was expanded to include butterfly observations. These sightings are submitted to E-Butterfly, an international database that collects and shares information on butterfly distribution and abundance. Although the Migratory Dragonfly Partnership is no longer active, the AAW remains committed to odonate and lepidoptera research at Westcave, contributing valuable long-term data for conservation and ecological understanding.
