threats present at each of the Hine’s emerald dragonfly sites. There are a few common threats between sites. These threats are fragmentation, changes to water flow, contaminants, vehicle mortality, and invasive animals and plants. Fragmentation Hine's emerald dragonfly populations are susceptible to habitat fragmentation. As of 2012, studies were being conducted to investigate barriers to Hine's emerald movement, such as roads and bridges. They studied how these barriers can influence the flight behavior and dispersal ability of the dragonflies. If Hine's emeralds are unable to disperse properly it may lead to isolated populations of lower population size. Poor dispersal also reduces genetic diversity, and low genetic diversity will make the Hine's emeralds more vulnerable to other threats they face. Invasive animals Invasive animal species pose a threat to Hine's emerald habitats. Beavers, feral hogs, and armadillos are the major potential threats. They can contribute to Hine's emerald habitat destruction. Beaver dams have the potential to flood the wetlands of Hine's emerald populations. When feral hogs forage for food, they have the potential to damage Hine's emerald habitats. As of 2013, feral hogs were only considered a threat in Missouri. However, their populations have grown in other states with Hine's emerald populations. Lastly, nine-banded armadillos also impact Hine's emerald habitats when they forage. Armadillos dig up soil looking for insect larvae and forage in burrows as well. The impact of armadillos on Hine's emerald habitats will require monitoring as the armadillo’s range continues to expand. Invasive plants Invasive plants have the potential to affect Hine's emerald habitats, behaviors, movements, and breeding. The invasion of woody vegetation and cattails into Hine's emerald habitats could affect adult flight behaviors. Invasive woody species can decrease the amount of subsurface water. This is a vital component of Hine's emerald larval habitats. The invasion of species like the common reed may decrease crayfish populations. Thus, decreasing the number of crayfish burrows that are a place of refuge for Hine's emerald larvae. Human impact Humans can impact Hine’s emerald dragonflies in a variety of ways. Most human impact involves habitat destruction/alteration. Reduction in habitat area fragments populations. Quarrying, filling wetlands, and creating landfills are examples of harmful human actions. Contamination is another way humans can harm Hine's emerald populations. Landfills have the potential to leach harmful chemicals and contaminate surface and groundwater. Both surface and groundwater are critical to Hine's emeralds in the larval stage. Recreational activities