Text Box: Damselflies & Dragonflies Text Box: Odanata Text Box: The Dragonfly family can be traced back 300 million years and the largest of these ancient insects had a wingspan of 70cm! However, modern day dragonflies can be traced back 250 million years. Today, there are 2,720 species of dragonfly worldwide, 38 of these breed in Britain. Far right top: Broad-bodied Chaser Dragonfly Below : Female Right: Empty larval case known as an Exuvia.

DID YOU KNOW?

Dragonflies often only live a few short weeks as adults but their larvae can live for a couple of years in their aquatic homes!

All dragon and damselflies are predators hunting flying insects on the wing, these include midges, mosquitoes and their smaller cousins. As larvae, small fish and tadpoles are also on the menu!

Text Box: There are 2,580 species of Damselfly worldwide of which 16 are known to breed in Britain. Damselflies are smaller and more dainty than Dragonflies, they can often be seen resting with wings folded together along the abdomen, dragonflies are unable to do this! Above left is a pair of Blue-tailed Damselflies in what is called the mating wheel. The male will continue to grasp the female after mating is complete and until she has finished egg laying. This will prevent another male mating with her and ensure continuation of his genes. Below left: A pair of Azure Damselflies The male grasping the female behind the head with his claspers whilst she lays her eggs.