FAQs and myths

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about dragonflies and damselflies. If your question isn’t answered here, please feel free to contact me.

  • What do they eat?

    Dragonflies and damselflies are insectivores: they are carnivorous predators and do not eat vegetation. Many species catch flying insects on the wing, while others hover and pick off crawling insects from plants, trees, and other vegetation. They rarely drink water directly, though they may take dew or raindrops occasionally, as most of their moisture comes from their prey.

    Their larvae (aquatic nymphs) are also fierce predators and will eat almost anything smaller than themselves. Larger dragonfly larvae can even eat young tadpoles and small fish.

  • How long do they live?

    Odonata live surprisingly long lives, though most of it is spent underwater as nymphs. Depending on the species, the nymph stage can last five years or more. Once they emerge as adults, their lifespan is much shorter: a few days to a few weeks for damselflies, and several weeks to a few months for dragonflies.

  • Where do they live?

    Dragonflies and damselflies occur on every continent except Antarctica, where conditions are too cold and dry. Around 7,000 species are known worldwide, most of them in tropical regions. In the UK, less than 50 species are recorded, with nearly 30 species found in Bedfordshire.

    They live wherever clean water is present – rivers, streams, ponds, lakes – and in nearby meadows, woodlands, and wetlands.

  • When can I see them?

    In the UK, adults typically begin emerging in April and can be seen through autumn, sometimes into October or November. Recent mild winters have even produced sightings in December and January but this is unusual.

Myths about Odonata

Although dragonflies and damselflies are completely harmless to humans, several myths persist. Here are a few that can be debunked.

  • Dragonflies sting – Not true

    Dragonflies subdue prey using speed, agility, and strong mandibles. They have no stingers and no need for them.

    Occasionally, a confused female may attempt to lay eggs in unusual place like boots or even a person’s head, which can be mistaken for a sting, but it is harmless.

  • Dragonflies are poisonous – Not true

    Dragonflies have no venom and are not poisonous to other animals. In some cultures, they are even eaten as food. Despite some species having bright warning-like colours, these patterns are more likely a defence strategy than a sign of toxicity. Birds such as hobbies, kestrels, flycatchers, and bee-eaters regularly prey on them.

  • Dragonflies bite – Not true (mostly)

    Dragonflies are not aggressive and do not seek to bite humans. If handled or threatened, they may use their mandibles defensively, and while their mouthparts are small, they can break the skin. Their nymphs, however, have powerful jaws and can deliver a noticeable nip.

  • Dragonflies live only a day – Not true

    The misconception likely stems from confusion with the (short-lived) Mayflies. In reality, the nymph stage lasts years, and adults live weeks to months, depending on the species.

Unique facts about Odonata

Dragonflies and damselflies are ancient insects, with ancestors dating back over 300 million years. They possess several remarkable adaptations.

  • Labium

    Their larvae have a specialised extendable mouthpart called the labium, which shoots out faster than a human blink to seize prey. It is one of the most extraordinary feeding mechanisms in the insect world.

  • Reproduction

    Males have two sets of reproductive organs, leading to the distinctive ‘wheel’ or ‘heart’ shape formed during mating. This unusual arrangement is unique among insects.

  • Eyes

    Dragonflies have the largest eyes of any insect, each containing up to 20,000 facets. Their near–360° vision allows them to see colour, ultraviolet light, and even polarised light, giving them exceptional hunting accuracy.

  • Underwater jet propulsion

    Dragonfly nymphs are the only insects that use jet propulsion. They draw water into the rectum and expel it forcefully to escape predators.

  • Flight

    Among the earliest flying animals to evolve, dragonflies are masters of the air. They can control each wing independently, allowing them to hover, fly backwards, move sideways, and accelerate rapidly – much like a helicopter.

Cultural perceptions

East and West

In many European traditions, dragonflies and damselflies were associated with superstition, misfortune, or the devil. Old names include ‘devil’s darning needles’, ‘horse stingers’, ‘adderbolt’, and ‘water witch’.

In contrast, many Eastern cultures view them positively – as symbols of summer, happiness, and transience. They frequently appear in haiku and other forms of art.

In truth, Odonata are harmless, beautiful creatures that play an important ecological role. They help control pest insects such as mosquitoes and serve as indicators of water quality and environmental change.

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