A dragonfly is a flying insect belonging to the infraorder Anisoptera below the order Odonata. About 3,000 extant species of dragonflies are known. Most are tropical, with fewer species in temperate regions. Loss of wetland habitat threatens dragonfly populations around the world. Adult dragonflies are characterised by a pair of large, multifaceted, compound eyes, two pairs of strong ...
Learn facts and symbolism about the dragonfly and damselfly family Odonata, as well as how to attract dragonflies to your garden, from The Old Farmer's Almanac.
What are dragonflies. How big are they. Where do they live. What do they eat. Also, learn their species, anatomy, predators, mating, & life cycle, along with images.
Dragonflies are one of Mother Nature's most accomplished aerialists but these 10 fascinating qualities truly set them apart from other flying insects.
Dragonflies are sometimes confused with Damselflies. Even though they are both members of the same order, they have slight differences whereby when resting, damselflies hold their wings together, a dragonfly holds its wings horizontally or slightly down and forward and their hindwings are broader near the base.
Dragonflies can hover, fly sideways, upsidedown, backwards (only hummingbirds can also do this in the animal world), and spin 360 degrees on axis. They can prey upon things like butterflies, moths, bees, flies, even other dragonflies, but mosquitos and midges are most often targeted.
Dragonflies are fascinating insects with over 5,000 species. Some of the most common types include skimmers, darners, clubtails, and emeralds. Each has their own distinct characteristics and behaviors. Despite their differences, all dragonflies are important predators in their ecosystems.