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How to Tell a Dragonfly From a Damselfly

People often refer to all members of the insect order, Odonata, as dragonflies. Many don't realize there are two separate Suborders. Dragonflies are the Suborder Anisoptera, which means "unequal-winged," and damselflies belong to Zygoptera, meaning "yoke-winged." While they share many characteristics, read below to tell the difference between dragonflies and damselflies.

Instructions

- 1
  Note the size of the insect. Dragonflies typically grow larger and thicker than damselflies.
- 2
  Inspect the wings to see if they are the same size. All four wings of the damselfly are the same shape and size. The dragonfly's two hind wings are wider and shorter than its two fore wings.
- 3
  Look at the insect's eyes. Damselflies' eyes are well separated and never touch each other. Dragonflies have larger eyes, which usually touch on the top of their heads.
- 4
  Notice their flying patterns. The damselfly is a weak, fluttery flier, who sticks close to water banks or the water's surface. Dragonflies usually are strong fliers and fly far from water.
- 5
  Watch their resting positions. Damselflies hold their four wings together, above the length of their abdomen. Dragonflies hold their wings straight out from their bodies at 180 degree angles.
- 6
  Study the larvae of each. Damselfly larvae have external plates that act as gills on the end of the abdomen. Dragonfly larvae don't have external plates.

Insects & Science