Dragonflies are ancient, fast-flying insects that hunt other insects on the wing. They are excellent indicators of healthy wetlands and have existed for hundreds of millions of years.
Interesting facts
- Their huge compound eyes give them almost 360-degree vision.
- They can fly forwards, backwards, sideways and hover.
- The globe skimmer dragonfly migrates across the Indian Ocean in a multi-generation journey of thousands of kilometres.
- Dragonfly larvae live underwater and catch prey with a hinged jaw that shoots forward.
- Giant dragonfly-like insects lived about 300 million years ago with wingspans of about 70 cm.
- Dragonflies rest with their wings held out flat, while damselflies usually fold them.
Behaviour
Adults patrol territories over water or hawk for insects over meadows. Males defend good egg-laying sites from rivals.
Breeding and young
Females lay eggs in or near water. Larvae live underwater for months or years, then climb out and split their skin to emerge as adults.
Threats and conservation
Loss and pollution of wetlands, pesticides and climate change.
Where to see it
- Ponds, lakes and rivers worldwide in summer
- The Maldives, for migrating globe skimmers in autumn
- Wetland nature reserves
- Build a garden pond to attract them
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
