INSECTA

A closer look · Insect guide

Dragonflies

Odonata — dragonflies

Dragonflies are flying predators often seen around ponds. Their immature stages live in water.

Dragonfly or damselfly?

Dragonflies generally rest with wings spread. Their large eyes occupy much of the head.

What do dragonflies eat?

Adults catch insects in flight; aquatic nymphs hunt underwater.

Where can you watch them?

Look over pond edges from a stable path.

Try one observation

Choose a perch and watch whether the insect returns after flying. Note the resting wing position, without stepping into the water.

Observe without handling or collecting. These clues are a starting point, not a confirmed identification.

Source & further reading

University of Maryland Extension — Damselflies, dragonflies and earwigs

Published . Short introductory summary; consult the source for detail and regional context.

Keep exploring

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