In a thrilling twist for nature lovers, the critically endangered Libellula angelina dragonfly—nicknamed 'bekko tombo'—was recently spotted near Beijing’s Shangzhuang Reservoir! 🌏 This tiny winged wonder, once common across East Asia, is now rarer than a TikTok trend surviving past a week, according to the IUCN’s Red List.
Local researchers from Haidian District’s Water Affairs Bureau first noticed the dragonfly during a routine ecological survey in May. After weeks of analysis with Beijing Forestry University experts, they confirmed the species’ identity. Talk about a glow-up for urban biodiversity! 🦋
Why does this matter? These dragonflies, which hatch annually between April and May, are living indicators of clean water ecosystems. Their reappearance hints at improving environmental conditions in northern China—a win for conservationists and eco-conscious Gen-Zers alike. 🌱
Once widespread across China, the Libellula angelina has faced habitat loss due to urbanization. This sighting fuels hope that green initiatives, like Beijing’s reservoir protections, might help rewrite its survival story. Who knew dragonflies could be this iconic? 💫
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Critically endangered dragonfly Libellula angelina spotted in Beijing
cgtn.com