Insects introduction- Dragonflies and Damselflies

Dragonflies and damselflies
They are amazing insects. They have a long history and modern species are almost identical to ancestors that flew over prehistoric forests some 300 million years ago. Some of these ancient dragonflies were giants, with wingspans of up to 70 cm. Modern dragonflies are tiny by comparison, but are still large and spectacular enough to capture the attention of anyone walking along a river bank or enjoying a sunny afternoon by the garden pond.

Dragonflies
Dragonflies are usually larger than damselflies. They are stronger fliers and can often be found well away from water. When at rest, they hold their wings open, rather like an aeroplane. The hindwings are usually shorter and wider than the forewings

Damselflies
Damselflies are small, delicate-looking insects with a weak flight. They often stay close to water. When at rest, most species hold their wings closed along their body. All four wings have the same size and shape.

Dragonflies as predators
Dragonfly and damselfly larvae will eat almost any creature that is smaller than they are. Prey may include bloodworms, snails, water fleas,
tadpoles and the larvae of mosquitoes or other aquatic insects. The larvae of larger dragonflies may also catch and eat small fish.

Dragonflies as prey
Among the species that catch and eat adult dragonflies and damselflies are birds (such as wagtails and hobbies), spiders, frogs; and larger species of dragonflies. However, dragonflies and damselflies are not helpless, their excellent eyesight and flying skills help protect them from capture, while the warning colours of some species – black and yellow, or black and red – deter some bird predators

Legal protection
Two species of dragonfly are protected by law: the Norfolk hawker and the southern damselfly. It is illegal to kill either of these species. Neither is very likely to occur in gardens.
The British Dragonfly Society has produced a code of practice for its
members. The code contains two important principles:
(1) Dragonflies should not be killed without a justifiable and useful purpose.
(2) Live dragonflies should be held captive only for good reasons.