Damselfly

photo by Andrew McKinlay CC BY-NC

Skimming low over slow-moving water, such as streams, ponds, and lakes, Damselflies are found throughout North America. They have a long thin abdomen (1-2 in), large eyes, and 2 pairs of wings with a wingspan of .7 to 2.5 in.

Damselflies are smaller with slimmer bodies than Dragonflies. They hold their wings close together above their body when resting, whereas Dragonflies spread their wings apart.

Damselflies lay their eggs on aquatic plants. The nymphs live underwater, emerging as adults throughout spring, summer, and fall.

Did you know? Damselflies catch insects by extending a long hinged lower lip. They hold the prey between their legs so that they can eat while flying.

See Also: Dragonfly, Mayfly