Did you know dragonflies are sometimes also called devil’s darning needle? The reason is slightly disturbing; the name is derived from a superstition that dragonflies may sew up the eyes, ears, or mouth of a sleeping child, especially one who has misbehaved.
Suddenly, the name “dragonfly” doesn’t sound so scary.
In reality, dragonflies pose no danger to humans. There are roughly 3,000 species of them, and they’re commonly found all over the world near freshwater habitats. Dragonflies are characterized by long bodies with two narrow pairs of wings that may have coloured markings. The Blue Dasher Dragonfly is one such species you’ll find in Bermuda.
Making their homes around gardens, woodlands, and parks, the Blue Dasher males have an electric blue abdomen, white faces, and metallic green eyes. The females are dark brown with yellow stripes.
While no threat to humans, dragonflies are accomplished predators. Their 2-inch wingspan and powerful build help them speedily dash around looking for ill-fated insects to eat. Small flying insects are what’s usually on the menu, but some dragonflies regularly consume prey that is 60 percent of their own weight. Its speed and agility make the dragonfly one of the most effective aerial predators.
Look for the Blue Dasher Dragonfly all year-round in Bermuda, along with the migratory orange Wandering Glider and the bright red Vermillion Glider.
