Suborder Dragonfly
The order Odonata has two suborders: Dragonflies and Damselflies. The three most obvious differences between the two are length, wing position, and eyes.
Dragonflies are longer than damselflies. Typically between two and five inches, with a thick abdomen. Damselflies tend to be shorter and more slender.
When a dragonfly perches, they have their wings outstretched. Damselflies perch with their wings together.
The eyes of a dragonfly are large. They cover both sides of the head extending onto the top where they touch, or almost touch. Damsels’ eyes are widely spread on opposite sides of the head.
Pictures updated: Sep 26, 2023
1 – Twelve-spotted Skimmer Male NY
2 – Mexican Scarlet-tail Male TX
3 – Four-spotted Pennant Male TX
4 – Calico Pennant Male NY
5 – Eastern Amberwing Male FL
6 – Widow Skimmer Male NC
7 – Roseate Skimmer Male TX
8 – Slaty Skimmer Male NC
9 – Halloween Pennant Male LA
10 – Band-winged Dragonlet Female TX
