Photo Albums

Following standard procedure, we've categorised our photographs into two albums: damselflies (zygoptera) and dragonflies (anisoptera).

Damselflies are typically small, with a slender build. Their flight tends to be weak. Their front and hind wings are identically shaped. When the animal's at rest, the wings are typically folded together along the abdomen, or - in the case of species of the genus Lestes - they're held slightly apart. A damselfly's eyes are well-separated.

By contrast, dragonflies tend to be much larger insects, with a robust build and powerful flight. Their hind wings are broader than the front wings and, when at rest, they're held at right angles to the abdomen. Most dragonflies' eyes touch, the exception being the Gomphidae family.

Of the 44 species of European damselflies, 42 are represented so far on our website. And of the 84 species of European dragonflies, 71 are represented. With time we'll be looking to further increase those numbers. For a complete checklist of all European species, please click here.