Insect identifier · Often confused insects
How to identify a Damselfly
Zygoptera
· Also called needle, pond damsel
People search “damselfly” because it looks like something that bites. Damselfly (Zygoptera) does not bite or sting people. Also called needle, pond damsel.
A blue needle on a reed is a damselfly.
What does a damselfly look like?
Damselfly is Slender, smaller than most dragonflies. Colors: blue, green, black. Marks: Wings folded together at rest; Very thin body; Near still water.
Damselfly is Slender, smaller than most dragonflies. Colors: blue, green, black. Marks: Wings folded together at rest; Very thin body; Near still water.
Identification marks
- Wings folded together at rest
- Very thin body
- Near still water
Size: Slender, smaller than most dragonflies
Colors: blue, green, black
Where: outdoor
Damselfly vs Dragonfly
Folded wings = damselfly. Flat wings = dragonfly. Neither bites people.
- Dragonfly identification (Anisoptera)
- Crane fly identification (Tipula spp.)
Range and season
Active summer. Places: water, marsh, yard. Hold wings together over the back. Do not bite or sting.
Pond edges and reeds.
Hold wings together over the back. Do not bite or sting.
Summer
Common questions
Do damselflies sting?
No.
Damselfly vs dragonfly?
Damselflies fold their wings. Dragonflies hold them out flat.