Dragonflies

Chances are you have seen a dragonfly or two since they live on every continent but Antarctica. And if you have never appreciated these flying marvels it’s time you took another look. 

Dragonflies are in the order Odonata which means “toothed ones” and describes their serrated mandibles.  They fly forward, backwards and sideways at speeds up to 30 MPH. They have four wings and each is able to move independently from the others which is why they are able to fly with such precision. Dragonflies have a head made up of two compound eyes which allows them to have nearly 360-degree vision.

In their larval stage, which can last up to two years, dragonflies live underwater. They eat worms, mosquito larvae, even small fish. Once they hatch they hunt their prey from the air. Dragonflies can adjust their flight to intercept prey with such accuracy that they are 95% effective. They only eat their prey while flying and if they are unable to fly they will die.

If you are still not impressed by the dragonfly consider one of its common names – Mosquito Hawk. One dragonfly can consume between 30-100 mosquitoes every day. In my book that makes them special. Rather than spraying poisons on our lawn and gardens to deal with flying pests we should encourage more dragonflies. Planting flowers that attract other insects will draw the dragonflies like an all-you-can-eat buffet draws a teenager. Dragonflies also love water gardens and water features.

Finally, dragonflies will not hurt humans. They do not bite or sting. They will not sew your lips shut so that you starve to death (something I remember hearing as a child). I have often had them land on me and if I am still, they eventually lower their wings. It has been said that if a dragonfly lands on you it is good luck. Sounds right to me.