Dragonflies are fascinating insects that have been around for over 300 million years. Their aerodynamic bodies, large multifaceted eyes, and amazing flying skills make them a joy to observe in nature. But what exactly attracts dragonflies to certain areas? What makes good dragonfly habitat? In this article, we’ll explore what attracts dragonflies and how to create an environment that brings in more of these remarkable insects.
Water
The presence of water is one of the most important factors that attract dragonflies. After dragonflies emerge from their larval stage underwater, they congregate around all types of freshwater habitats to feed, mate, and lay eggs. Ponds, lakes, streams, rivers, marshes, and wetlands will all attract adult dragonflies to varying degrees. Slow moving water with abundant vegetation is especially attractive as it provides ideal egg-laying sites.
| Water Source | Attractiveness to Dragonflies |
|---|---|
| Pond | High |
| Lake | High |
| Stream | Medium to High |
| River | Low to Medium |
| Marsh | High |
| Wetland | High |
Small backyard ponds in particular are magnets for dragonflies if built correctly. A pond with varying depths, aquatic plants, and plenty of algae attracts dragonflies seeking food and breeding habitat. Moving water from a fountain or waterfall also appeals to these insects. Maintaining clean water by preventing stagnation and excess nutrients will keep dragonfly populations healthy.
Shelter
Dragonflies need adequate shelter near water sources for resting, mating, and protection. Ideal shelters include:
| Shelter Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Trees | Perching sites, shade |
| Shrubs | Protection from wind and predators |
| Long grasses | Roosting and crawling spots |
| Rocks | Basking and night resting places |
| Logs | Perching and crawling spots |
Trees and shrubs located near water give dragonflies sheltered spots to pursue prey as well as areas to rest when not flying. Long grasses at the edge of the water provide habitat for fledglings crawling out of the water after transforming into dragonflies. Rocks, fallen logs, and sticks offer essential nighttime roosts for safety. A diversity of native vegetation will satisfy all of a dragonfly’s shelter requirements.
Prey Availability
Dragonflies are fierce aerial predators that capture and consume a wide variety of flying and terrestrial insects. Their hunting grounds need abundant mosquitoes, midges, flies, bees, butterflies, moths, and spiders to sustain healthy dragonfly populations. Dragonflies themselves are also prey for larger predators like birds. An ecosystem with diverse insect life and foraging opportunities will satisfy a dragonfly’s hearty appetite.
| Prey Type | Frequency in Dragonfly Diet |
|---|---|
| Mosquitoes | High |
| Midges | High |
| Flies | High |
| Bees | Moderate |
| Butterflies/Moths | Moderate |
| Spiders | Low to Moderate |
Avoiding the overuse of pesticides allows this essential prey base to flourish and satisfy foraging dragonflies. Introducing small fish and frogs that eat dragonfly larvae also brings in larger predatory dragonflies wanting to eat those species.
Basking Spots
Dragonflies rely on external heat sources to raise their body temperature high enough for flight. Open areas that receive ample sunlight allow dragonflies to warm up and begin flying each day. Ideal basking spots include:
- Rocks – Flat, sunlit rocks allow dragonflies to perch and spread their wings.
- Logs – Fallen trees get plenty of exposure to sunshine.
- Asphalt paths – Paved trails absorb heat that dragonflies utilize.
- Open sandy/muddy areas – Direct sunshine warms up open ground.
- Wood decks – Elevated surfaces receive concentrated sunlight.
Placing large stones, cut logs, gravel paths, or wooden decks near dragonfly water habitat creates an enticing spot to bask in the warming rays of the sun. Evergreen trees and shrubs should be avoided as they block essential sunlight.
Protection from Wind
While their flight abilities allow them to withstand some wind, dragonflies prefer calm conditions to conserve energy. Ponds and shoreline areas protected from prevailing winds create a more inviting habitat. Natural windbreaks like trees, shrubs, tall grass areas, hills, and rock formations provide shelter from gusting winds and turbulence.
Wetlands surrounded by a tree canopy or vegetation filled meadow offer calmer zones for dragonflies to patrol while hunting. Wind can also blow dragonflies into unsafe territory far from water sources. Reducing wind exposure by creating barriers allows them to remain near critical breeding habitat.
Conclusion
Dragonflies enrich any landscape or water feature with their graceful movements and bright colors. Providing the mix of habitat elements that dragonflies find most attractive can bring in more of these beneficial insects to observe and enjoy. Clean water, abundant vegetation, rocks, logs, open sunshine, and protection from wind meets all the environmental needs of dragonflies during their complex life cycles. Careful habitat planning and management creates a little piece of paradise that dragonflies will flock to regularly. The flitting, darting aerial acrobatics of dragonflies will reward the effort spent making a space naturally inviting to them.
