How to Build a Dragonfly Habitat for Kids

A dragonfly habitat provides an educational hobby for kids who want a low-maintenance pet. A well-built habitat is a humane way for kids to observe the life cycle of the dragonflies they catch, whether they are kept as pets at home or as part of a science unit in a classroom. Once moved into the habitat, a dragonfly requires only minimal attention over the course of its life. It may even serve as a home for multiple generations of dragonflies.

Things You'll Need

  • Kiddie pool, half barrel or trough
  • Dirt
  • Rocks
  • Water
  • Hornwort or water starwort
  • Raw chicken
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Instructions

    • 1

      Spread a layer of dirt and rocks along the bottom of a container, such as a kiddie pool, half of a barrel or a trough.

    • 2

      Fill the container with at least 6 inches of water.

    • 3

      Submerge the roots of hornwort or water starwort in the water and anchor them in place between some of the larger rocks.

    • 4

      Let the habitat sit for a few days in a warm, sunlit spot. This will allow some time for the temperature and ecosystem within the habitat to develop and stabilize.

    • 5

      Attract dragonflies to the habitat along with small pieces of raw chicken that the dragonfly will use as food.