The dragonfly and damselfly are two insects commonly found near water which may be easily identified. They both have long, slender bodies with two sets of "clear" wings of approximately equal length and width. They both tend to have a prominent dark spot near the wingtip. Both have very short antennae. Both lay their eggs in clumps at the water's surface, or among clumps of aquatic plants. The young or nymphs are totally aquatic, and are very effective predators of small fish, worms, and other aquatic insects. As adulthood nears, the nymph climbs rush blade or twig and emerges into the air where it rests, then splits the chitinous sking and slowly emerges as an adult. At this time, the body, abdomen and wings enlarge and the skin and wings then dry before flight takes place. The adults feed on flying insects. They are especially helpful in eating mosquitoes. Adult dragonflies and damselflies reportedly have among the best eyesight of insects. Their compound eyes are quite large, occupying the larger part of their heads!

1. Dragonfly: Wings held to side when at rest. Tail thicker.

2. Damselfly: Wings held over midline of back when at rest. Tail thinner.