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Abstract
In Asia, insects have a long history of being a part of recreation and tourism activities, with some species such as rhinoceros beetles and dragonflies being raised as pets. While the role of insects in recreation and tourism (i.e. dragonfly gatherings, educational outings) is somewhat more modest in North America, Europe, and Australia, some of these activities are increasing in popularity. The availability of field guides, associations, and websites is helping to facilitate the growth of these leisure activities, and more specifically the viewing of Odonata (i.e. dragonflies, damselflies). Participant observations and interviews were used to provide an empirical understanding of how one particular insect order – Odonata attracts participants to recreation and tourism activities, fosters interests, and creates controversies (e.g. collecting). A theoretical framework provided by naturework, an interpretivsitic approach developed by Fine [(2003). Morel tales: The culture of mushrooming. University of Illinois Press.] is used to understand the philosophies involved in dragonflying. The conclusion highlights how new forms of recreation and tourism activities can promote greater awareness of insects.