Learn the identifying features of dragonflies

Guide to identifying dragonflies

Learn how to identify dragonflies and damselflies by looking at their features, such as colour, size, and flight pattern!

1. Colour

Dragonflies and damselflies come in different abdominal or wing colours! Some species have prominent markings on their abdomen and wings.

For example, the Common Parasol has brownish-red abdomen and wings, with clear wing tips. In contrast, the Yellow-barred Flutterer has barred pattern of yellow, dark brown and metallic blue on the base of its hindwings. The different colours make each species distinct!

2. Size

Dragonflies and damselflies come in all sizes – some are as small as a paperclip while others are as big as the width of your hand!

The Scarlet Pygmy, as its name suggest, is much smaller than other dragonflies, measuring at only 17mm. The Common Flangetail in comparison, measures up to 68mm!

3. Flight Pattern

Depending on the way they fly, dragonflies and damselflies can be classified into four groups: Gliders, Flutterers, Skimmers, and Darters.

Gliders

Gliders are dragonflies and damselflies that soar effortlessly through the air, often taking advantage of wind currents to travel long distances with minimal wing movement.

Flutterers

Flutterers have a slower, more hovering flight pattern, characterised by gentle, fluttering wingbeats that allow them to maneuver delicately among vegetation.

Skimmers

Skimmers are agile fliers that zip quickly across the surface of water, darting low and often pausing briefly to rest on floating leaves or reeds.

Darters

Darters are known for their rapid, darting movements, making sharp turns and sudden stops as they chase prey or avoid predators, displaying remarkable aerial agility.