Description
Dragonflies and damselflies are both in the order Odonata, a name referring to their toothed jaws. They are common around lakes and streams. Dragonflies, which have wider bodies and stiffer wings than damselflies, are strong fliers, and may be seen well away from water. Dragonflies hold their wings perpendicular to their body when at rest, while damselfies hold their wings parallel to their body and behind them. Both may have clear wings or wings with black or colored bands. Colorful, sometimes iridescent, markings cover their bodies. The largest dragonflies in the United States are over 4 inches long with a wingspan of nearly 6 inches. The adult insects will feed on other flying insects while on the wing. Dragonflies and damselflies deposit their eggs in water or boggy areas close to water. The immature insects, called naiads, live at the bottom of streams and ponds where they feed on insects, tadpoles, and small fish. Naiads are, in turn, eaten by larger fish. Naiads bear little resemblance to the adults; they are broad bodied and wingless, and have 3 pairs of legs that are as long as or longer than their bodies. They are up to 2½ inches long. When naiads are fully grown they crawl out of the water on a plant stem, post, or other nearby object, shed their skins, and emerge as adults. Their outgrown skins may be seen along the water's edge.
Control
Controls are not necessary.