The Siberian winter damselfly is currently believed to be in decline (8), with a serious reduction in both its numbers and distribution reported in the Netherlands (9). It is also classified as Endangered (EN) in the Mediterranean region, and is believed to be at risk from future drying out of its breeding habitat as a result of climate change (10).
Due to the unique hibernation behaviour of members of the genus Sympecma, the Siberian winter damselfly is also vulnerable to natural threats during the winter. Low temperatures, predation by rodents and disturbance by cattle and humans may all contribute to an increased risk of mortality during the winter hibernation period (9).
Overall, approximately 15 percent of dragonfly and damselfly species in Europe are currently considered to be threatened with extinction. General threats facing many species include the destruction of their freshwater habitat due to the unsustainable extraction of water, the construction of dams and reservoirs and pollution (8).