Dragonfly vs. Damselfly — What's the Difference?

Insect Predator: A fast-flying insect known for its predatory skills.

Separated Eyes: Has eyes that are set apart on its head.

Perpendicular Wings: Rests with wings spread out, away from the body.

Delicate Insect: A slender-bodied flying insect, often seen near water.

Anisoptera Member: Belongs to the Anisoptera suborder of Odonata.

Parallel Wings: Rests with wings folded neatly over its back.

Large Eyes: Possesses large compound eyes that often touch each other.

Zygoptera Member: Belongs to the Zygoptera suborder of Odonata.

Broad-Bodied: An insect characterized by a robust and wide body.

Light Flight: Exhibits a fluttery and light mode of flight.

A dragonfly is an insect belonging to the order Odonata, infraorder Anisoptera (from Greek ἄνισος anisos, "unequal" and πτερόν pteron, "wing", because the hindwing is broader than the forewing). Adult dragonflies are characterized by large, multifaceted eyes, two pairs of strong, transparent wings, sometimes with coloured patches, and an elongated body.

Damselflies are insects of the suborder Zygoptera in the order Odonata. They are similar to dragonflies, which constitute the other odonatan suborder, Anisoptera, but are smaller and have slimmer bodies.

Any of numerous predatory insects of the order Odonata, having large eyes, a long slender body, and two pairs of transparent veined wings, especially those of the order Anisoptera, which hold the wings outstretched when at rest, as distinguished from the damselflies. Also called regionally darner, darning needle, devil's darning needle, mosquito fly, mosquito hawk, needle, skeeter hawk, snake doctor, snake feeder, spindle.

Any of numerous often brightly colored, predatory odonate insects of the suborder Zygoptera that have a long slender body with transparent veined wings and that, unlike dragonflies, hold the wings together over the abdomen when at rest. Also called demoiselle.

An insect of the suborder Epiprocta or, more strictly, the infraorder Anisoptera, having four long transparent wings held perpendicular to a long body when perched.

Any of various insects of the suborder Zygoptera that have long slender bodies, and are similar to dragonflies but having wings folded when at rest.

Slender-bodied non-stinging insect having iridescent wings that are outspread at rest; adults and nymphs feed on mosquitoes etc.

A slender nonstinging insect similar to but smaller than the dragonfly but having wings folded when at rest.

Slender non-stinging insect similar to but smaller than the dragonfly but having wings folded when at rest

Yes, both belong to the order Odonata but are different suborders.

No, they are harmless to humans and do not sting or bite.

Both lay eggs in water, and their larvae develop in aquatic environments.

Dragonflies are generally larger and more robust than damselflies.

Yes, both are typically found near water bodies as their larvae are aquatic.

Some species, especially certain dragonflies, are known to migrate over long distances.

Both are predators, primarily feeding on smaller insects.

Dragonflies are strong predators and can be more aggressive in their hunting habits than damselflies.

Yes, both undergo a process of metamorphosis from larval to adult stages.

Large eyes give dragonflies a broader range of vision, aiding in hunting and navigation.

Both dragonflies and damselflies can exhibit vibrant colors, though it varies by species.

Lifespan varies by species, but typically, in their adult form, they live for several weeks to a few months.

Absolutely, they help control mosquito populations and serve as food for other animals.

While they can fly in light rain, heavy rain can impede their flight.

Yes, dragonflies are generally faster and stronger fliers compared to damselflies.