Dragonflies

Dragonflies are amazing flying insects with four wings and huge eyes. They have been on Earth for over 300 million years, long before the dinosaurs. Dragonflies are some of the best fliers in the insect world. They can fly forward, backward, and hover in place.

Speed and Vision

Dragonflies can fly up to 35 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest insects. Their huge compound eyes have up to 30,000 tiny lenses and can see in almost every direction at once. They catch their prey while flying, snagging mosquitoes and other insects out of the air.

From Water to Air

Baby dragonflies, called nymphs, live underwater for months or even years. They breathe through gills and hunt small water creatures. When ready, they climb out of the water, their skin splits open, and an adult dragonfly emerges with beautiful wings.

Fun Facts

• Dragonflies can eat hundreds of mosquitoes in a day.
• Ancient dragonflies had wingspans of over 2 feet.
• Their wings move independently, allowing incredible aerial maneuvers.

Did You Know?

Dragonflies catch 95 percent of the prey they chase, making them one of the most successful hunters in the animal kingdom!