In May I posted a photo on Twitter I figured it was just another Dragonfly, fortunately for me Nature photographer Kerri Far (@KerriFar) let me know it was it fact a Damselfly. Thus began my fact finding journey into determining the difference between the two.
A quick glance at my photographs and it is the wings. The Damselfly wings lay parallel their body when at rest, Dragonfly wings stay out stretched. On closer inspections the hindwing of the Dragonfly broadens at the base and is stubbier, while the hindwing of the Damselfly is similar to the forewing. It is however when you look into their eyes you see the Dragonfly eyes a set together, but the Dameselfly eyes are set apart.
Insect Group Odonata
The group is divided into two distinct sub-orders, Zygoptera/Damselflies and Anisoptera/Dragonflies.
Zygoptera/Damselflies – Means paired-wings’ i.e. All four wings are for the most part equal in size and shape. Damselflies are small, delicate flying insects that usually stay near to the water.
Anisoptera/Dragonflies – means ‘unequal-winged’i.e Rear or hind wings are generally shorter and broader than forewings. Dragonflies are much larger than the damsels and can often be found flying far from water.
I Love learning new things, Nature has so much to teach us all.
Much Love,
Lee