蜜芽传媒

In this episode writer Katherine Rundell looks at the dragonfly - an insect with a prehistoric past. Around 300 million years ago, dragonfly-like creatures called meganeura had wingspans up to two feet and preyed on amphibians and insects. Today鈥檚 dragonflies are much smaller, but no less remarkable.

There are over 3,000 species, ranging from Britain鈥檚 golden-ringed dragonfly to the bright pink roseate skimmer. The globe skimmer dragonfly is known for its extraordinary migration across the Indian Ocean, travelling thousands of miles without stopping.

But climate change is having an influence on them. Males in cooler regions have darker wings to absorb heat, and as global temperatures rise, scientists are observing a shift toward lighter, even colourless wings.

Written and presented by Katherine Rundell
Produced for 蜜芽传媒 Audio in Bristol by Natalie Donovan