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How to Use Nets to Catch Dragonflies

Dragonflies are large insects that possess five eyes. Their eyesight makes them difficult to catch because they can see you and can often see you swiping at them with a net. To successfully catch a dragonfly with a net, you need one with an appropriately sized diameter. You also need to use a specific swipe method so the dragonfly does not see you coming.

Things You'll Need

18-inch insect net

Instructions

- 1
  Stand as still as possible in an area where you have found the dragonflies. Hold the net comfortably with one hand near the back of the handle and your dominant hand near the net.
- 2
  Wait for a dragonfly to fly in front of you, across your field of vision. Do not chase dragonflies; they can change flight direction to avoid you.
- 3
  Swipe at the dragonflies from behind and below as they pass in front of you. This way they do not see the net coming and are less likely to avoid it.

Insects & Science