Willow Sawfly vs Hairy Dragonfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Willow Sawfly | Hairy Dragonfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nematus salicis | Brachytron pratense |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Tenthredinidae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | 7-9 mm (adult) | 54-63mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Wetlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Willow Sawfly
A defoliator of willows across Europe found in wetlands and riparian areas. Larvae feed gregariously on willow leaves from May to autumn.
Did You Know?
Multiple overlapping generations allow continuous feeding pressure throughout the growing season.
Hairy Dragonfly
The earliest-emerging hawker dragonfly in Europe, with a distinctively hairy thorax. Males have blue and green markings on a dark body. It flies along ditches and reed-fringed waterways.
Did You Know?
It emerges up to two months earlier than other hawkers, giving it exclusive access to spring insect prey.