The Amazing Dragonflies
Dragonflies are incredible insects that have been around for millions of years. They belong to the group known as “Odonata,” which means “toothed one” in Greek, referring to their toothed jaws. Dragonflies are known for their beautiful colors, which can range from blue, green, yellow to even red and pink!
How Dragonflies Move
One of the most fascinating things about dragonflies is how they fly. They can zoom across the water at speeds of up to 45 kilometers per hour (about 28 miles per hour), hover like a helicopter, and even fly backwards. They do all this with their two sets of wings that can move independently. This allows them to change direction in an instant!
Dragonflies’ Eyes
Have you ever seen a dragonfly up close? They have very large eyes that cover most of their head, giving them a helmet-like appearance. These eyes are made up of thousands of tiny lenses, allowing them to see in nearly every direction except right behind them. This excellent vision helps them spot their next meal and avoid predators.
Life Cycle of a Dragonfly
Dragonflies have an interesting life cycle. They start their life as an egg, which hatches into a larva. This larva, known as a nymph, lives in the water and can take up to four years to grow into an adult. During this time, the nymph sheds its skin multiple times as it grows. Finally, it emerges from the water, sheds its last larval skin, and transforms into the beautiful flying insect we love to watch.
Dragonflies and Their Habitat
Dragonflies can be found near lakes, ponds, rivers, and wetlands. They love places where there is plenty of fresh water, as this is crucial for their nymph stage which lives in the water. These habitats are not only important for dragonflies but also for many other species, making them vital for biodiversity.
Come join the fun story of dragonflies and download a coloring page to add your own colors to these fascinating creatures!