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Dragonfly


Dragonfly
Source: USFWS

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Dragonflies are insects that have long bodies, transparent wings, and large eyes. There are over 5,000 species of dragonflies that are part of the scientific infraorder called Anisoptera.

Because dragonflies are insects they have 6 legs, a thorax, a head, and an abdomen. The abdomen is long and segmented. Despite having 6 legs, the dragonfly doesn't walk very well. It is a great flyer, however. Dragonflies can hover in one place, fly extremely fast, and even fly backwards. They are some of the fastest flying insects in the world reaching speeds of over 30 miles per hour.


Halloween Pennant Dragonfly
Source: USFWS


Dragonflies come in a variety of colors including blue, green, yellow, and red. They are some of the most colorful insects on the planet. They also come in a range of sizes from half an inch long to over 5 inches long.

Where do dragonflies live?

Dragonflies live throughout the world. They like to live in warm climates and near the water.

What do they eat?

One of the best things about dragonflies is that they like to eat mosquitoes and gnats. They are carnivores and eat all types of other insects too including cicadas, flies, and even other smaller dragonflies.

To catch their prey, dragonflies create a basket with their legs. They then swoop in capturing their prey with their legs and biting it to hold it in place. They will often eat what they have caught while they are still flying.

In order to see predators and their food dragonflies have large compound eyes. These eyes are made up of thousands of smaller eyes and allow the dragonfly to see in all directions.

Fun Facts About Dragonflies

Dragonfly
Source: USFWS




For more about insects:

Insects and Arachnids
Black Widow Spider
Butterfly
Dragonfly
Grasshopper
Praying Mantis
Scorpions
Stick Bug
Tarantula
Yellow Jacket Wasp



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