Ebony Jewelwing Damselfly

Did you know that dragonflies as a species are older than the dinosaurs?  Their prototype appeared on earth nearly 200 million years before the arrival of T Rex and his cousins.  Fossil evidence indicates that the largest dragonfly in prehistoric times had a wingspan of 28 inches. It was and still is the largest insect to ever inhabit the earth.

Dragonflies and their cousins, damselflies, can be found in various habitats all over the world.  There are about 150 species of them documented in Connecticut.  They live near fresh water where they lay their eggs.  They have a 3 phase-life cycle: egg; larva (or nymph); and adult.  Both the larva and adults are carnivores.  

The larva live underwater and breathe through gills.  When they hatch and how quickly they grow depends on the water temperature.  They prey on other insect larva, tadpoles and small fish.  Depending on the species, it can take a few weeks or to up to five years for the larva to mature. As they grow, they molt and shed their exoskeletons multiple times.

Female(left) and Male Whitetails perching at the Still Pond Council Ring.

Dragonflies and damselflies share many of the same characteristics. They have two sets of wings and large compound eyes with up to 30,000 lenses. They hunt on the wing for mosquitos and gnats. Dragonflies have stouter bodies and hold their wings horizontally at rest. Damselflies are smaller with a thinner, sleeker body. At rest they hold their wings vertically. Males tend to be territorial during mating season and chase off other suitors.

A jewelwing damselfly with a pencil thin body

As dragonflies and damselflies are born in the water, declines in their populations can indicate problems in the ecosystem.  Warming temperatures, drought and water pollution all have a detrimental effect on their health.  We can all help to protect them by practicing conservation at home, avoiding using pesticides, and by supporting open space. 

Late summer is a good time to go out and look for these aerial acrobats.  You will find them near ponds, wetlands and streams and in meadows, parks and gardens that are near a watersource. Below are some of the different kinds that live on New Canaan Land Trust properties and in the Northeast.

Eastern Pondhawk

Cherry-faced Pondhawk

Variable Dancer