Facts About Dragonflies

While dragonflies begin their lives in the water, they later grow into swift and agile flyers. Their narrow wings, elongated bodies and large eyes make them easy to distinguish from other flying insects. Although their size and shape can be intimidating, dragonflies are harmless to humans; on the other hand, dragonflies pose a threat to other members of the insect kingdom.

  1. Odonata Family

    • Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the Odonata order. According to the University of California Museum of Paleontology, "Odonata" means "toothed ones." The title refers to the powerful mandibles of mature dragonflies and damselflies. Dragonflies don't bite humans unless you threaten them; for example, a dragonfly may try to bite if you keep it trapped in your hand. In most cases, they can't bite hard enough to pierce human skin.

    Lifespan

    • When dragonflies are in their aquatic stage, they can live for years in freshwater. However, after leaving the water, they may only live for several months. Predators such as frogs, spiders and birds can shorten an airborne dragonfly's already brief lifespan.

    Diet

    • Dragonflies are not fussy eaters; they will eat a wide variety of smaller insects. Flies, gnats and mosquitoes are common prey. Sometimes, adult dragonflies will even eat smaller dragonflies and damselflies. According to BioKids, dragonflies prefer an open hunting ground, rather than areas with thick vegetation. When in their aquatic stage, dragonflies eat mosquito nymphs and tadpoles.

    Flight

    • Most dragonflies fly at 10 miles per hour. However, some can move at a maximum of 30 mph. They are among the fastest flying insects in the world. In addition, they are extremely acrobatic; they can even fly backwards and in loops.

    Ancient Dragonflies

    • Modern dragonflies have wingspans of roughly 6 inches. Fossils reveal that ancient dragonflies had wingspans of over 2 feet. They were some of largest insects in history. Don't worry; those enormous specimens died out during the Triassic period.

    Folklore

    • Dragonflies are at the center of worldwide folklore. For example, Swedish folklore suggests that the insects would stitch the mouths of children and adults who swore or lied. This myth gave dragonflies the nickname "the devil's darning needle." According to Dragonfly-Site, dragonflies symbolize maturity, poise and self-created illusions.