Dragonflies are insects that predate dinosaurs by over 100 million years and birds by some 150 million. Fortunately, present-day dragonflies are considerably smaller. Easily recognised for their rather metaphysical beauty, the “dragon” portion of their name comes from the fierce jaws that they use to catch their flying prey. The “fly” portion of their name is because they are the world's fastest insects, capable of reaching speeds of up to 60 mph.
Many dragonflies are skilled hunters but are mostly harmless. These flies are generally found around watery areas and have sparkling wings and beautiful colours. They are a great boon for the environment, as they take care of unwanted pests hoping to make a meal of your produce.
Mosquitos are the dragonfly’s favourite food. If you have a heavy enough population of dragonflies attracted to your garden, then it's sure that there will be a drastic decrease in the number of harmful insects and bugs in your garden over a period of a week or so.
Dragonflies are an important environmental indicator. They rely on healthy aquatic ecosystems and healthy food chains. Threats to their wellbeing include habitat loss, water, and air pollution.
Of the 307 species of American dragonflies, many experts agree that roughly 15% of them are critically endangered. Many of these are the species that dwell in small streams and ponds specifically as their ordained habitats.
Dragonflies have inherent value as a life form on the planet, as a source of genetic diversity, as ambassadors to the insect world, as bio-indicators for environmental health, and for their consumption of insects that are harmful to humans.
