NATIONAL DRAGONFLY DAY | Second Saturday in June

(Last Updated On: May 16, 2023)

NATIONAL DRAGONFLY DAY

We are celebrating National Dragonfly Day on the second Saturday in June to bring awareness to one of nature’s most beautiful insects. Join us today as we buzz around learning facts about the big-eyed bug also known as the dragonfly.

#NATIONALDRAGONFLYDAY

Evidence shows dragonflies are nearly 300 million years old. Paleontologists have discovered dragonfly fossils with 3-foot wingspans. Interestingly, some scientists say dragonflies may have been just as large as the size of an eagle today. Let’s celebrate National Dragonfly Day together and learn why this beautiful insect is one of nature’s most wonderful bugs.

Dragonflies are a common summertime insect living in areas of wetlands where you can see them sliding on the surface of the water and then lifting away. They vary in color, ranging from bright metallic to light pastel colors. Their wings are large making them the fastest of all insect species. However, dragonflies must warm up their muscles in order to fly properly.

Dragonflies are expert fliers in comparison to any other insect. The average dragonfly has the ability to fly like a helicopter. In fact, they fly straight up or down, forward, and even hover keeping perfectly level. In addition, the dragonfly is extremely fast and agile. The fastest speed ever documented was 35 mph. Their flying skills and speed help them catch food for survival. If a dragonfly cannot fly, it does not survive.

6 Unusual Facts About Dragonflies

1. Most adult dragonflies live for only a few weeks, but some do live up to a year.
2. The average dragonfly has nearly 30,000 eye facets. In fact, they have 360-degree vision, including the ability to see behind them.
3. Dragonflies help control the mosquito population, eating up to 100 mosquitos per day.
4. Dragonflies can live in the winter but are normally small and stumpy in size.
5. Dragonflies use their feet to catch their food.
6. Dragonflies can live for years underwater.

The dragonfly has symbolic meaning in almost every part of the world. In fact, many cultures believe this insect symbolizes good luck. Because dragonflies have such short lifespans, they also represent new beginnings and change, especially for strength, growth, courage, and happiness. A few ancient cultures say dreaming about a dragonfly indicates you are in a powerful transition in your life.

5 Symbolic Dragonfly Beliefs

1. Asian culture believes the dragonfly represents good luck, prosperity, and new beginnings.
2. Native Americans believe a dragonfly symbolizes life transformations.
3. South American cultures believe the dragonfly symbolizes good luck and prosperity. In fact, artists include the dragonfly in their pieces
4. Africans believe dragonflies are a sign of spirits and bring good luck. Africans also hold dragonflies in high regard because they are water gods who bring rain.
5. European cultures see the dragonfly as a symbol of change and adaptability. Unsurprisingly, you can find dragonflies included in many European folklore stories and beliefs.

There are around 5,000 species of dragonflies around the world. A dragonfly is classified as an Odonata, which is a family of flying insects that includes dragonflies and damselflies. Though insects are considered unpopular, dragonflies tend to be watched with fascination because of their beauty.

What are the 3 classifications of dragonflies?

1. Aeshnoidea Super Family is the first classification of dragonflies.
2. Cordulegastridae Super Family are also known as the Flying Adders and have yellow, black, or brown bodies.
3. Libelluilode Super Family is the most commonly seen dragonfly. This classification is the largest family of dragonflies and is often referred to as the skimmer dragonfly.

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL DRAGONFLY DAY

If you are looking for ways to celebrate National Dragonfly Day, we have a few ideas for you. If you have more ideas, let us know on social media!

1. Learn about the different species of dragonflies.
2. Take a walk near a lake or pond to view dragonflies in their habitat.
3. Learn about the symbolism of dragonflies in your own culture.
4. Paint a dragonfly picture.
5. Capture a dragonfly on camera and post it on social media using #NationalDragonflyDay.

Check out this amazing video about dragonflies by National Geographic:

Related National Days on the Calendar

• NATIONAL START SEEING MONARCHS DAY | First Saturday in May
• NATIONAL TAKE A WALK IN THE PARK DAY | March 30
• NATIONAL WALK TO A PARK DAY | October 10