Odonata – dragonflies and damselflies – are among the most formidable insect predators. Their success comes from a combination of speed, agility, stealth, and highly specialised anatomy. Both as larvae and adults, they sit at the top of their respective food chains, making them apex predators of the insect world.
Their predatory lives unfold in two very different environments: underwater as larvae and in the air as adults. Because these stages occupy separate habitats, they do not compete for food or space, and larvae are safe from predation by adults. This separation of habitats is a successful evolutionary strategy that supports strong, sustainable populations.
Dragonfly and damselfly larvae (nymphs) live among sediments and submerged vegetation in ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers. In these habitats they act as highly effective ambush predators, using their extendable lower jaw (the labium) to seize prey with remarkable speed.
Larvae are aggressive, opportunistic feeders with a broad diet that falls into three main categories:
Large dragonfly larvae are powerful enough to subdue surprisingly large prey. Some species have been recorded capturing fish as large as a three‑spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), demonstrating the reach and force of their predatory strike.
Larvae use two primary hunting methods:
The method used depends largely on habitat. Species living in murky or sediment‑rich waters tend to be ambush hunters relying heavily on touch, while those in clear, flowing water are more likely to stalk prey visually.
The extendable mouthpart known as the labium or ‘mask’ is one of the most distinctive features of Odonata. At rest, it folds beneath the head and thorax. When prey approaches, the nymph shoots the labium forward in a rapid strike, seizing the victim with its terminal pincers in just 20–60 milliseconds – far faster than a human blink that, by way of comparison, lasts 100–150 milliseconds – and too quick for prey to evade.
Larvae can attempt multiple strikes in quick succession, often within one or two seconds. This mechanism is unique to Odonata and ranks among the fastest predatory strikes in the insect world. Once captured, prey is pulled back to the mouth and consumed using powerful serrated mandibles capable of cutting through fish flesh and tough insect cuticle.
When the aquatic stage ends, adult dragonflies and damselflies emerge and take to the air as agile, acrobatic fliers. They hunt other insects on the wing and do not feed on carrion or vegetation, though likely accidental exceptions have been reported.
Adult dragonflies are extraordinarily efficient predators. Controlled studies show hunting success rates of 95% or more, far exceeding most vertebrate predators. Their success reflects advanced flight control, exceptional vision, and precise interception strategies. Rather than engaging in long chases, they typically make short, calculated interception flights that conserve energy and maximise capture rates.
Odonata have exceptional vision. Dragonflies possess the largest compound eyes of any insect, providing an almost 360° field of view with only a small blind spot behind the thorax and abdomen. They detect colour, ultraviolet light, and polarised light–abilities that help them locate prey and identify water surfaces essential for breeding.
Three simple eyes (occeli) on the top of the head assist with stabilisation and orientation during flight. Their acute motion sensitivity allows them to track fast‑moving prey, and flexible neck joints enable rapid head movements during flight and when perched and scanning for food.
Adult Odonata feed on a wide range of flying insects, selecting prey according to their size, agility, and seasonal availability.
Damselflies generally target smaller, softer‑bodied insects, reflecting their lighter build and slower flight. Larger dragonflies, with more powerful flight muscles and stronger mandibles, can subdue substantial and fast‑flying prey.
Diet can shift with habitat, time of year, and the availability of different prey. In early summer, swarms of midges and mosquitoes often make up most of their meals. Later in the season, when butterflies and newly emerged damselflies are more common, they may turn their attention to those instead. This flexibility as opportunistic feeders – never relying on a single food source – helps them keep insect populations in check and supports both their own success and the health and balance of the wider ecosystem.
Adults use three principal hunting methods:
Hawkers and salliers catch prey in flight by forming a basket with their spiny legs and then transferring the insect to their mandibles. Gleaners often grab prey directly with their mouthparts. Larger dragonflies may eat on the wing, but many species return to a perch to feed.
Despite their – to some – fearsome appearance, dragonflies and damselflies have no stingers and do not sting. They subdue prey using strong, serrated mandibles – reflected in the name Odonata, meaning ‘toothed ones’.
Although apex insect predators, both larvae and adults are vulnerable and have many natural enemies.
Larvae are eaten by fish, birds, diving beetles, and larger Odonata nymphs. Both larvae and adults host various parasites. Water mites commonly attach to damselfly larvae and transfer to the adult during emergence, appearing as tiny red or black spheres on the abdomen, thorax, or wings. Even heavy infestations rarely appear to cause significant harm.
Emergence is one of the most dangerous stages of the life cycle. Newly emerged (teneral) adults cannot yet fly or return to the water, leaving them exposed to predators. Many species reduce this risk by emerging at night or by synchronising emergence in large numbers. Even so, teneral dragonflies and damselflies are frequently taken by frogs and birds.
Adult dragonflies’ aerial agility helps them evade many predators, but skilled fliers such as flycatchers and raptors catch them regularly. The Hobby (Falco subbuteo) may consume 50 or more dragonflies in a single day. Hornets (Vespa crabro) can overpower dragonflies, and damselflies – being slower and more delicate – are often caught in spiders’ webs. Larger Odonata may also prey on smaller species.