Along with cockroaches, dragonflies are among the longest-living insects on the planet.
The dragonfly, as one of the largest flying insects, may seem threatening, but the truth is that dragonflies are harmless, at least to humans. They are predatory insects that feed primarily on mosquitoes and crop pests, making them extremely dangerous to smaller insects. However, although they can sometimes be seen swarming and perching precariously near humans, they do not feed on humans or domestic animals. Dragonflies can bite your skin if you try to catch one, but they are not dangerous to people.
Dragonflies are in the company of cockroaches as one of the longest-living insects on the planet. Fossilized dragonflies have been found with wingspans of 30 inches (76.2 cm) or more, making them the largest insects. Fortunately, they have gotten much smaller over time and now have an average wingspan of just a few centimeters.
There are hundreds of species of dragonflies. Adult male dragonflies are often brightly colored, and the wings of adult dragonflies do not fold even at rest. If you see what you think is a dragonfly with its wings tucked into its back, it’s probably the damsel, a close relative of dragonflies.
The larvae, or immature stage, of dragonflies settle and grow in the water. Even as adults, dragonflies do not stray far from water sources. They can usually be found living near lakes, streams, and rivers.
The immature stages feed on other aquatic insects and occasionally on very small fish. Adults hunt mosquitoes and other pests. Often when seen swarming, dragonflies are hunting. They can launch themselves at an insect in the air and continue to fly. They hold their prey between their legs and eat on the run.
Although there is some folklore about the danger and secret powers that surround dragonflies, they do not sting or bite, have no ancient powers, and are not considered harmful. In fact, they are beneficial insects because they feed on other harmful insects. The next time you see a dragonfly, give it as much attention as you want, but remember that you can only help the environment and may even rid your garden of some unwanted mosquitoes.