What Is the Difference Between Dragonflies and Damselflies?
Dragonflies and damselflies are among the most conspicuous and beautiful insects found near freshwater habitats. Both belong to the order Odonata, but they are placed in different suborders: dragonflies in Anisoptera and damselflies in Zygoptera. While they share many features—including aquatic larval stages, predatory habits, and spectacular flying abilities—several key differences make it possible to tell them apart with confidence.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Dragonflies (Anisoptera) | Damselflies (Zygoptera) |
|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Robust and stocky | Slender and delicate |
| Wing position at rest | Held open, perpendicular to the body | Held closed, along the body (most species) |
| Hindwing shape | Broader than forewing at the base | Similar in shape to forewing |
| Eyes | Large, touching or nearly touching at the top of the head | Widely separated, positioned on either side of the head |
| Flight style | Powerful, fast, and direct | Fluttery, weaker, and more erratic |
| Size | Generally larger (40–80 mm typical) | Generally smaller (25–45 mm typical) |
| Larval gills | Internal (rectal gills) | External (three tail-like caudal lamellae) |
Body Shape and Build
One of the most immediately obvious differences is overall body shape. Dragonflies tend to be robust insects with a broad, powerful thorax and a relatively stout abdomen. Their body plan reflects their role as fast, agile aerial predators. Damselflies, by contrast, are altogether more delicate, with a slender, elongated abdomen and a narrower thorax. When seen perched, a damselfly may appear almost stick-like.
Wing Position at Rest
This is perhaps the single most useful identification feature for beginners. When a dragonfly lands, it holds its wings out horizontally, perpendicular to the body, much like an aeroplane. A damselfly typically folds its wings together above or along its abdomen when at rest.
Exceptions to the Rule
The emerald damselflies (family Lestidae) are a notable exception—they often rest with their wings held partially open, which can cause confusion. Similarly, some spreadwing damselflies hold their wings at an angle. When in doubt, check the eye position and wing shape for confirmation.
Wing Shape
In dragonflies, the hindwings are noticeably broader at the base than the forewings, giving them an asymmetrical wing profile. In damselflies, the forewings and hindwings are essentially the same shape and size—the name Zygoptera literally means “equal wings.”
Eye Position
Head structure provides another reliable identification character. In most dragonfly species, the compound eyes are so large that they touch or nearly touch at the top of the head, giving the insect an almost helmet-like appearance. Damselfly eyes are prominent but clearly separated, positioned on either side of the head with a visible gap between them.
Did you know? Dragonfly eyes contain up to 30,000 individual facets (ommatidia) and can detect movement in almost every direction simultaneously. This extraordinary vision makes dragonflies among the most successful aerial predators, catching up to 95% of the prey they pursue.
Flight and Behaviour
Dragonflies are renowned for their powerful, direct flight. Many species can reach speeds exceeding 30 miles per hour and are capable of hovering, flying backwards, and making abrupt changes of direction. Their broader hindwings and muscular thorax provide the lift and power needed for this demanding flight style.
Damselflies are weaker, more fluttering fliers. Their lighter build and equal-sized wings produce a gentler, more erratic flight pattern. They tend to stay closer to vegetation and water margins rather than patrolling open water as many dragonflies do.
Larval Differences
Both dragonflies and damselflies spend the majority of their lives as aquatic larvae (nymphs). However, their larval forms differ significantly:
- Dragonfly nymphs are stocky with internal gills (located inside the rectum). They breathe by drawing water in and out of the abdomen and can even use this mechanism for jet propulsion to escape predators.
- Damselfly nymphs are more slender and possess three conspicuous caudal lamellae—leaf-like external gills at the tip of the abdomen. These are clearly visible and serve as a definitive identification feature.
Common British Species
Dragonflies
- Common darter (Sympetrum striolatum) – One of the most frequently seen dragonflies in the UK, often perching on fence posts and stones.
- Southern hawker (Aeshna cyanea) – A large, inquisitive species that frequently approaches humans.
- Emperor dragonfly (Anax imperator) – Britain's largest resident dragonfly, with a bright blue abdomen in males.
Damselflies
- Common blue damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum) – Abundant around ponds, lakes, and slow-flowing rivers.
- Large red damselfly (Pyrrhosoma nymphula) – One of the first odonates to emerge in spring.
- Banded demoiselle (Calopteryx splendens) – A stunning species with dark wing patches, found along rivers.
Key Takeaway
While dragonflies and damselflies share the order Odonata, they can be reliably distinguished by wing position at rest (open vs closed), body build (robust vs slender), eye spacing (touching vs separated), hindwing shape (broader vs equal), and larval gill type (internal vs external). Practising these identification points at your local pond will quickly build your confidence.