Fascinating Facts About Dragonflies

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1. Over 80% of their brain is used to interpret what they see.
2. Small antennae make it easy to get close and bite prey.
3. Wings propel them forward as fast as 35 miles per hour.
4. Legs grab and hold larger prey in midair.
5. Holes in long abdomens allow them to breathe.
6. When it’s chilly, dragonflies bask in the sun for warmth or vibrate their wings quickly to generate heat.

Next, check out facts about other amazing backyard creatures.

Ancient Wonders

Dragonflies are some of the oldest animals on the planet, with fossils dating back more than 300 million years! Nearly 2,500 different kinds of dragonflies are found all over the world, in colors from purples to bronzes that often shimmer or look metallic. They lay their eggs and hunt around water, so consider installing a pond to attract them to your backyard.