The study of dragonflies
by admin - July 5th, 2013
The study of dragonflies, and sometimes damselflies, is called Odonatology. Dragonflies are referred to as Odonates.
Watching Dragonflies
Though watching odonates is easily done with the naked eye, a pair of close focusing binoculars will definitely make it easier. Though some species can easily be identified, some others need to be caught and closely examined in order to distinguish them from other similar looking species.
Most dragonflies prefer to perch themselves close to water, and the length of time they remain perched can vary. Various species tend to have individual behaviors, and you could have dragonflies that prefer hanging on twigs, or flying very high off the ground, making it quite difficult to observe.
Because of their compound eyes, dragonflies can see in many directions at once. This makes them very sensitive to movement, and some dragonflies can be quite easily startled. They don’t see very well from the rear, however – so if you plan to study one, it’s best approached quietly from behind.