Butterfly and Dragonfly Surveys
Variegated Fritillary. Photo: Rusty Moran
Count Butterflies and Dragonflies
From April - October, a team of citizen scientists surveys four sites around Occoquan Bay for these beautiful flying insects to collect data about the health of their populations and the biodiversity of the area.
To join an upcoming survey, send an email to Jim Waggoner at jwagge3093@aol.com. Please include the date and location of the survey you would like to join in your note.
Butterfly and dragonfly surveys are carried out in temperate months (April-October), normally on Friday mornings, at one of four sites around Occoquan Bay, all within the 15-mile diameter circle established for the North American Butterfly Association's Annual Count. In addition, butterflies and dragonflies are counted as part of regular, general surveys conducted at Occoquan Bay NWR and Meadowood SRMA generally once each month, usually on Wednesdays.
The results of these surveys are made available to the participants and other interested individuals and agencies, including the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, and agencies of the U.S. Interior Department. The results of the butterfly-dragonfly surveys are summarized, along with the results of the general surveys, in an annual report.
When: April through October, see schedule below
Locations - In rotation at the following locations (please use these specific directions to find the group meeting place):
Occoquan Bay NWR: Follow the directions to the entrance, continue to the parking area at the end of the entrance road, and meet at the pavilion.
Meadowood SRMA: Follow the directions to the entrance and continue on the entrance road to the stables.
Metz Wetlands: Follow the directions to the small parking lot on the left just past the sign for the elementary school.
Occoquan Regional Park: Follow the directions to the entrance, proceed past the Suffragist Memorial on the left and turn into the boat launch area on the right.
Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve: Follow the directions to Belle Haven Marina and take the first left on the entrance road into the parking area.
Upcoming Surveys
A Closer Look: Nature Around Us
(formerly Observations from Meadowood)
NVBA board member Judy Gallagher has been collecting photos from her personal trips to Meadowood Recreation Area and beyond and sharing them in her column published monthly in the Potomac Flier.
Read more of Judy’s articles here.
More Ways to Get Involved with NVBA
Volunteer with Us
Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization. Your time and enthusiasm power our conservation and educational outreach efforts, both in the field and behind the scenes, helping us do more for birds, wildlife and habitat in northern Virginia.
Want to join us?
Check out our volunteer page for all the different ways you can lend a hand! From pulling invasive plants at habitat restoration sites to citizen science efforts like counting birds and insects, there’s something for everyone.
Become a Member
Join our roost! NVBA members are eligible for perks like discounted ticket prices on classes, members-only events and bird outings. Plus access to our wonderfully supportive community of birders, conservation advocates and nature lovers.
We have two local membership options: one for individuals and one for families. Check out our membership page for more information. We hope you’ll join us!