Fendragon

The Wild House of Fendragon protects Lincolnshire's fenlands and is symbolised by the dragonfly. Dragonflies are also known as Odonata and love the wetland marshes of the fens. They are one of the fastest flying insects but begin their life as aquatic nymphs. All over the world dragonflies are symbols of change because of their ability to transform from a water creature into a flying creature.

Fens are wetland landscapes usually dominated by grasses, sedges and shallow meres. Lincolnshire's fenlands once stretched from central Lincolnshire to the Wash, forming a great wetland full of large meres and wild vegetation. Insects, birds and mammals representing many different species like beavers, butterflies and bitterns once lived in the Fens making it one of the most abundant natural areas of Britain.

Over the last few hundred years the Fens have been drained for farmland to provide food for Britain's growing population. Unfortunately this has meant a tremendous loss of natural habitat (99%). With the recent establishment of Willow Tree Fen Nature Reserve the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is helping to address this by providing a safe haven for the fenland wildlife that still survives.

If you have been chosen to be a Fendragon Protector then your role is to raise awareness of Fenland wildlife. Tell your friends and family about the great wilderness that once existed in the Fens and how landowners and local communities can work together to create a sustainable future for people and wildlife. Follow the Willow Tree Fen Facebook page to support fenland wildlife!

Click the image below to download your Fendragon badge!