Can you identify these insects? How many
of you said dragonflies? They look like dragonflies, don’t they? Not to
the trained eye. Those love bugs are damselflies involved in the annual
procreation of the species. So, why do I start this week’s lesson with
an X-rated picture?
Well, maybe it isn’t X-rated, but it does show an important point. If
you plan to tie flies to match the local insects, it helps to be able to
identify those insects. Although dragonflies and damselflies look a lot
alike, there is one easy-to-identify difference between the species.
Dragonflies hold their wings to the sides when they
are at rest. This is a more important feature than size or coloration
since both species vary a bit in size and coloration.
When you look at a damselfly that’s resting its wings are folded over its
back. Next time you see one of these creatures, look to see if it’s a
dragonfly or damselfly.
Originally published c. May 11, 2008 on Fly Anglers Online by Al Campbell.