How do dragonflies begin their lives in water. What makes dragonflies important bioindicators of ecosystem health. Why are some dragonfly species threatened with extinction. What symbolic meanings are associated with dragonflies across cultures.
The Remarkable Biology of Dragonflies
Dragonflies are captivating insects known for their agile flight and striking appearance. These ancient creatures have inhabited Earth for over 325 million years, evolving into approximately 7,000 species alive today. Together with damselflies, they form the order Odonata.
Dragonflies can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They are easily recognizable by their large bodies, four elongated wings, and their ability to hover and dart through the air with impressive speed and maneuverability. These insects can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour and are capable of flying backwards by taking off vertically, similar to a helicopter.
Extraordinary Visual Capabilities
One of the most fascinating features of dragonflies is their compound eyes. These large eyes nearly touch each other and are composed of approximately 28,000 individual optical units called ommatidia. This intricate visual system provides dragonflies with exceptional eyesight, crucial for their predatory lifestyle and aerial agility.
The Life Cycle of Dragonflies: From Water to Sky
The life cycle of dragonflies is a remarkable journey that begins in water and culminates in the air. Understanding this process provides insight into the unique adaptations and ecological roles of these insects.
Egg-Laying and Larval Stage
Female dragonflies typically lay their eggs in fresh water bodies during midsummer. They hover above the water surface and dip their abdomens to deposit eggs, which hatch after approximately 7-8 days. The resulting larvae, called naiads or nymphs, remain in the aquatic environment for up to three years.
During this aquatic phase, dragonfly nymphs are voracious predators. They hunt various aquatic insects, mosquito larvae, and even small fish. Their unique lower jaw, which can extend outward and open sideways, allows them to snatch prey efficiently. Interestingly, these nymphs may even engage in cannibalism, preying on other dragonfly nymphs.
Metamorphosis and Adult Life
Dragonfly nymphs undergo between 6 to 15 molts before emerging as fully formed adults. This final transformation is a lengthy process, taking about 12 hours to complete. Once they reach adulthood, dragonflies typically live for only about a month.
As adults, dragonflies continue their predatory lifestyle, hunting flies, mosquitoes, and midges. Their specialized leg structure, with arms that slant upward to form a basket-like shape, enables them to scoop up prey while in flight.
The Unique Mating Behavior of Dragonflies
Dragonflies exhibit fascinating mating behaviors that set them apart from many other insects. Their reproductive process involves several distinctive stages and adaptations.
Self-Insemination and Partner Selection
Before mating, male dragonflies undergo a process called self-insemination. This involves curling their body to transfer sperm from the primary genitalia at the tip of the abdomen to the secondary genitalia located just below the thorax. Once prepared, males seek out receptive females.
The “Mating Wheel” Formation
When a male finds a willing female, he grasps her behind the head using claspers at the tip of his abdomen. The pair then flies together to a suitable location. Upon landing, the female curls her abdomen to meet the male’s secondary genitalia, forming what is known as a “mating wheel.” This distinctive formation often resembles the shape of a heart.
Interestingly, some dragonfly species are capable of mating while in flight. The actual mating process is brief, typically lasting only a few seconds. Following copulation, females can immediately begin laying eggs.
Dragonflies as Ecological Indicators
Dragonflies play crucial roles in their ecosystems, both as predators and as prey for various birds and fish. However, their importance extends beyond these direct interactions.
Bioindicators of Ecosystem Health
Scientists consider dragonflies to be reliable bioindicators of ecosystem health. Why are dragonflies effective indicators of environmental conditions? These insects require stable oxygen levels and clean water to thrive. Their presence or absence in an ecosystem can provide valuable insights into water quality and overall habitat health.
Threats to Dragonfly Populations
Despite their adaptability, many dragonfly species face significant threats. A comprehensive assessment conducted in 2009 revealed that approximately 10% of dragonfly species were at risk of extinction. The primary factors contributing to this decline include:
- Destruction of freshwater habitats, particularly ponds, bogs, and fens
- Water pollution
- Invasion of non-native vegetation
For example, the yellow presba, a dragonfly species native to South Africa, is losing its grassland habitat to the invasive Australian black wattle tree. This fast-growing non-native species blocks sunlight, preventing the growth of grasses essential for the dragonfly’s survival. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) now classifies the yellow presba as vulnerable to extinction.
The Cultural Significance and Symbolism of Dragonflies
Throughout history, dragonflies have captivated human imagination and found their way into various cultural beliefs and symbolic representations.
Dragonflies in Spiritual Beliefs
The dragonfly spirit animal is a powerful totem in many cultures. These insects often represent transformation, spontaneity, and ancient wisdom. Their ability to move between water and air has led to associations with adaptability and spiritual growth.
Common Symbolic Meanings
Dragonflies are often associated with the following symbolic meanings:
- Opportunity
- Vision and clarity
- Transformation
- Spiritual growth
- Connection to fairy realms
- Ancient wisdom
When a dragonfly appears in someone’s life, whether in nature, art, or media, it is often interpreted as a sign to pay attention to one’s surroundings and be open to new opportunities or perspectives.
The Prehistoric Origins of Dragonflies
Dragonflies have a fascinating evolutionary history that spans hundreds of millions of years. These insects are among the oldest flying creatures on Earth, with fossil records dating back to the Carboniferous period, approximately 325 million years ago.
Ancient Ancestors
The earliest dragonfly-like insects, known as Protodonata or griffinflies, were much larger than modern dragonflies. Some species, such as Meganeura, had wingspans of up to 65 centimeters (about 2 feet). These giant insects thrived in the oxygen-rich atmosphere of the late Paleozoic era.
Evolutionary Adaptations
Over millions of years, dragonflies evolved various adaptations that have contributed to their success and longevity as a group. These include:
- Highly efficient wings for agile flight
- Advanced compound eyes for superior vision
- Specialized mouthparts for capturing prey
- Unique reproductive structures
The long evolutionary history of dragonflies has allowed them to refine their adaptations, making them incredibly successful predators and one of the most recognizable insect groups today.
Dragonflies in Ecosystems: Predators and Prey
Dragonflies play vital roles in the ecosystems they inhabit, serving both as efficient predators and as important prey for various animals.
Dragonflies as Predators
As voracious insectivores, dragonflies significantly impact the populations of many other insects. What makes dragonflies such effective hunters? Their exceptional flying abilities, coupled with excellent vision and specialized leg structures, allow them to capture prey with remarkable precision.
Dragonflies are particularly known for their role in controlling mosquito populations. Both the aquatic nymphs and adult dragonflies consume large numbers of mosquito larvae and adults, respectively. This natural pest control function makes dragonflies valuable allies in human efforts to reduce mosquito-borne diseases.
Dragonflies as Prey
While formidable predators themselves, dragonflies also serve as an important food source for various animals. Birds, fish, frogs, and even some larger insects prey on dragonflies at different stages of their life cycle. This position in the food web contributes to the overall balance and energy flow within ecosystems.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges for Dragonfly Protection
Given the ecological importance of dragonflies and the threats they face, conservation efforts are crucial for ensuring their survival and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Habitat Preservation and Restoration
One of the primary focuses of dragonfly conservation is the protection and restoration of their habitats. This includes:
- Preserving existing wetlands, ponds, and other freshwater ecosystems
- Restoring degraded aquatic habitats
- Creating artificial habitats such as constructed wetlands
- Managing invasive plant species that threaten native vegetation
Water Quality Improvement
Efforts to improve water quality are essential for dragonfly conservation. This involves:
- Reducing pollution from agricultural runoff and industrial sources
- Implementing better wastewater treatment practices
- Promoting sustainable land use practices in watershed areas
- Monitoring water quality in dragonfly habitats
Research and Monitoring
Ongoing research and monitoring programs are crucial for understanding dragonfly populations and the effectiveness of conservation efforts. These initiatives often involve collaboration between scientists, conservation organizations, and citizen scientists.
Public Education and Awareness
Raising public awareness about the importance of dragonflies and their habitats is an essential component of conservation efforts. Educational programs, nature walks, and citizen science projects can help foster appreciation for these insects and encourage community involvement in conservation activities.
The Future of Dragonfly Research and Conservation
As our understanding of dragonflies and their ecological roles continues to grow, new avenues for research and conservation are emerging.
Advanced Tracking and Monitoring Technologies
Researchers are developing and implementing new technologies to study dragonfly behavior and migration patterns. These include:
- Miniature radio transmitters for tracking individual insects
- DNA analysis techniques for population studies
- Remote sensing technologies for habitat mapping
Climate Change Impacts
Understanding how climate change affects dragonfly populations and distributions is becoming increasingly important. Research in this area focuses on:
- Shifts in species ranges due to changing temperatures
- Alterations in life cycle timing and duration
- Impacts on habitat availability and quality
- Potential mismatches with prey availability
Ecosystem Services Valuation
Quantifying the economic value of ecosystem services provided by dragonflies, such as natural pest control, is an emerging area of research. This information can help inform policy decisions and conservation strategies.
As we continue to unravel the mysteries of these fascinating insects, our efforts to protect them and their habitats will undoubtedly evolve. The future of dragonfly conservation lies in our ability to combine scientific knowledge, technological advancements, and public engagement to ensure the survival of these ancient and remarkable creatures.
Dragonflies, facts and photos
- Common Name:
- Dragonflies
- Scientific Name:
- Anisoptera
- Type:
- Invertebrates
- Diet:
- Insectivore
- Group Name:
- cluster
- IUCN Red List Status: ?
- Not evaluated
Least Concern Extinct
- Current Population Trend:
- Decreasing
What is a dragonfly?
Whether delicately perched on a cattail or hovering over a pond, dragonflies are a sure sign of summer.
Living on every continent but Antarctica, these insects are instantly recognizable by their large bodies; four long, horizontal wings; and the way they hover and zip around. Dragonflies can reach speeds of up to 35 miles an hour and fly just as gracefully backward by lifting off vertically, helicopter style. Their compound eyes are so large they nearly touch, and each one has about 28,000 single eyes, or ommatidia.
Around 7,000 species of true dragonflies are alive today, and, together with the closely related damselflies, they form the group Odonta, which goes back 325 million years.
Watery beginnings
Dragonflies begin their lives in the water. Around midsummer, females hover over bodies of fresh water and dip in their abdomens, laying eggs that hatch in about seven to eight days. Called naiads or nymphs, these larvae stay in the water for up to three years, hunting aquatic insects, mosquito larvae, or small fish with a lower jaw that reaches out and opens up sideways, snatching prey into their mouths. They may even cannibalize other dragonfly nymphs.
Nymphs propel themselves quickly by sucking water into their abdomen and then spitting it out. They undergo between six and 15 molts before emerging as fully formed adult dragonflies, a process that takes about 12 hours. Adults live only about a month, hunting flies, mosquitos, and midges. Their arms slant upward, forming a type of basket and enabling them to scoop up prey in flight.
Mating wheel
Adults also look for opportunities to mate. First the male goes through what’s called self-insemination, curling his body to transfer sperm from his primary genitalia, at the tip of his abdomen, to the secondary genitalia, just below the thorax.
When he finds a receptive female, he grasps her behind her head with claspers at the tip of his abdomen, and the two fly off together.
When they land, the female curls her abdomen under to meet his secondary genitalia, forming a “mating wheel” that can resemble the shape of a heart. (Sometimes they will mate in the air.) Mating takes just a few seconds, after which the female can immediately lay her eggs.
Disappearing fliers
Dragonflies are important to their environments both as predators (particularly of mosquitos) and as prey to birds and fish. Because these insects require stable oxygen levels and clean water, scientists consider them reliable bioindicators of the health of an ecosystem.
In 2009, the first comprehensive assessment of insect species showed that 10 percent of dragonfly species were under threat of extinction. The animals are imperiled by destruction of freshwater habitats—particularly ponds, bogs, and fens—by pollution, and non-native vegetation.
For example, the yellow presba, a dragonfly native only to South Africa, is losing its grassland habitat to the Australian black wattle, a commercially introduced tree. The fast-growing invasive species blocks out sunlight that sustains the grasses. The International Union for Conservation of Nature now considers this dragonfly vulnerable to extinction.
The colorful, acrobatic dragonfly may seem familiar, but this stunning macro film reveals the mysteries behind its metamorphic life cycle.
Dragonfly Meaning, Symbolism & Spirit Animal [+ Colors]
Dragonfly meaning and symbolism includes opportunity, transformation, spontaneity, ancient wisdom, and other mystical qualities. These beautiful winged insects have fascinated people for thousands of years. In fact, the dragonfly spirit animal is a powerful totem that appears in the spiritual beliefs of many cultures.
One of the first winged insects, dragonflies have inhabited the Earth for over 300 million years. By comparison, evidence of the first humans dates back to just 2.8 million years. As ancient artifacts attest, dragonfly meanings intrigued our distant ancestors, just as they intrigue us today. In this post, you’ll learn about commonly shared dragonfly symbols and meanings, dragonfly mythology, the dragonfly spirit animal, and more.
What does a dragonfly symbolize?
- Opportunity
- Spontaneity
- Vision
- Clarity
- Finesse
- Realization
- Transformation
- Spiritual Growth
- Fairies
- Ancient Wisdom
What does it mean when you see a dragonfly?
If a dragonfly makes their presence known to you, whether it’s by flying in front of you in real life, in art, the media, or in some other setting, pay attention. There are no coincidences.
Allow the dragonfly who has crossed your path to expand your awareness. The dragonfly has a message for you.
“Magic is seeing wonder in nature’s every little thing, seeing how wonderful the fireflies are and how magical are the dragonflies.”
– Ama Vanniarachchy
Detailed Dragonfly Symbols and Meanings
Transformation, Change, and Opportunity
Dragonflies and lotus flower by Pixels and Paint Art.
The dragonfly is blessed with an abundance of unique traits. Throughout the world, they are viewed as symbols of self-realization, transformation, change, and even rebirth.
Dragonflies are born in or on the water. They exist there in their larval stage for months or even years before they molt. Finally, they become an adult dragonfly – the beautiful flying insect with clear wings that we love to see.
However, like the butterfly, the dragonfly only lives as an adult for a short period of time. Thus, they remind us to seize the day and live life to the fullest. Don’t put off to tomorrow what you can do today.
The dragonfly also symbolizes that change is imminent. This change can be a personal transformation, a change in one area of your life, or a change in your relationship with someone else.
Live to the Fullest: Now Is the Time
Because the dragonfly’s time in their Earthly manifestations is temporal, they are also symbols of opportunity. Timing is important. If you’re presented with a promising opportunity, jump on it, as it may not come again. The dragonfly says, “Now is the time.”
Vision and Insight
Like the owl, the dragonfly has powerful vision that sets them apart from other creatures, including us. Humans and many other animals have trichromatic vision, which means we see things in combinations of three primary colors: red, green, and blue. The dragonfly, on the other hand, sees the world through up to 30 “primary” colors. Their eyes are far more sensitive to light than ours. Thus, the dragonfly sees things in ways that we do not.
In addition, like the owl, the dragonfly can see nearly 360 degrees. The dragonfly has special visionary powers, thus they are also symbols of vision and insight. If you ever hear stories from people who have had near-death experiences, one theme that is common to many is that when they passed over, they saw colors that they never knew existed. Perhaps they saw the colors that a dragonfly sees.
The dragonfly reminds you that you have the ability to look at things from different perspectives. Let your mind be flexible, and your consciousness will expand.
Maneuverability and Finesse
Like the hummingbird, the dragonfly has special flying skills. They can fly as fast as 45 miles per hour. In addition, they can maneuver instantly from side to side, upwards, downwards, and then stop in midair.
The dragonfly can also lift things that are 15-times their body weight. These powers have fascinated scientists because we humans have been unable to duplicate something so extraordinary with our own flying machines.
The dragonfly’s unique flying skills remind you to be flexible – think quickly on your feet and be ready to “switch gears” and change course if needed. In the way that the fairy Tinker Bell is here and then she’s gone, the dragonfly spirit animal reminds you to be quick and light. Envision the lightness of your being, and you can handle the changes coming your way.
Dragonfly Color Symbolism
Dragonflies come in a rainbow of colors, so many people are curious about the different colors that the dragonfly symbolizes. Color symbolism is personal to each person and even in different cultures. However, there are some universal color meanings that can be applied to dragonfly symbolism.
Red Dragonfly Meaning
If you see a red dragonfly, depending on your location, it may be a meadowhawk, of which there are a few different sub-species, such as red-veined darters. Another red dragonfly is the calico pennant. Red dragonflies are rare, so if you see one in the wild, it’s a special event.
Red is a power color. It’s the hue of primal energy, passion, anger, and intensity. In Asian cultures, red symbolizes good luck and wealth. In Japan, red dragonflies are associated with autumn.
Red is also associated with the first or “root” chakra. The root chakra is the foundation of your physical vitality, your will power, your passion, courage, desire, and security. As the name implies, your root chakra helps you to feel secure.
If you see a red dragonfly, think about areas of your life related to your root chakra that may need transformation. Do you need to fortify your personal security, whether it be physical, financial, emotional, or even spiritual? Are there areas of your life where you need to infuse more passion? If you see a red dragonfly, make a wish for good luck and more vitality in an area of your life where you need more security or passion, or to help yourself feel more grounded.
Orange Dragonfly Meaning
Dragonfly species that are orange include a variety of skimmers, such as the flame skimmer, firecracker skimmer, golden-winged skimmer, or Needham’s Skimmer.
Orange dragonflies can symbolize joy, creativity, wellness, and sensuality. The second, or sacral, chakra is orange. It’s called Svadhisthana in Sanskrit. This chakra is located in the area of your lower abdomen. It affects your gut instincts and (along with the root chakra) your sexuality.
If you see an orange dragonfly, consider the areas of your life that need nourishing. This might be your relationships, such as with family, friends, colleagues, or your romantic partner. It could also be your physical well-being. We all perform at our best when we come from a place of health and wellness. We are more creative, more sensual, and happier. Your orange chakra is foundational within your body. When wellness thrives within you, the rest of your life can thrive too. An orange dragonfly can be a sign that you need to make changes to improve your health and wellness routine.
In addition, the orange dragonfly reminds you to go with your gut. The fast and agile dragonfly is not about mulling over decisions. The orange dragonfly says, “Trust your instincts and be quick about it!”
Yellow Dragonfly Symbolism
Yellow dragonflies are often juvenile males. In addition, there are dragonflies that have yellow stripes, including the black petaltail, the spiketail, and the river cruiser.
Yellow symbolizes happiness, optimism, intellect, and honor. Your yellow chakra is called Manipura in Sanskrit, and it governs your solar plexus. It represents your will and how you assert yourself in the world.
The energy of the yellow dragonfly is one of youthful exuberance. He reminds you that you have the energy within in you, no matter how ancient or tired you may feel at times, to accomplish what you must on your soul’s journey. If you see a yellow dragonfly, tap into your inner youthful vitality. It exists!
In addition, the yellow dragonfly calls on you to consider how you can use your wits, your intellect, and willpower to exert positive change in your life and the lives of others.
There are forces at work in the Universe. However, at the same time, we have been blessed with free will. How do you tap into your higher power so you can better use your will to bring more happiness to yourself and the world?
Yellow is also akin to the power of light. The yellow dragonfly reminds you that you are a light worker. You are here to honor God, or your higher power, with the greatest expression of yourself. No matter how difficult, painful, or frustrating life can get, the yellow dragonfly reminds you that you are here to do good work on Earth.
Green Dragonfly Symbolism
Dragonflies that are green include the darner, the pondhawk, and other species.
Green symbolizes nature, renewal, growth, fertility, and emotions. It also symbolizes financial abundance and security. This is a color of trust; hence you will notice a lot of financial institutions use green in their logos.
Your green chakra is your heart chakra, or Anahata in Sanskrit. As your fourth chakra, Anahata governs your chest, including your heart, lungs, and respiratory and circulatory systems. This chakra also affects your heartfelt emotions and relationships.
If you see a green dragonfly, it may be time for a new relationship to come into your life. It can also be a reminder to reach out to those you haven’t spoken to in a while to reconnect. Like so many other things in life, with nurturing, relationships can grow and evolve. This dragonfly reminds you to come from a place of heart and make sure you are nourishing your relationships in a healthy way.
The green dragonfly may also be a sign that financial abundance is on its way.
As the dragonfly is a symbol of transformation and rebirth, consider the areas of your life that are related to your heart chakra that you would like to expand and improve, such as your relationships, your respiratory and circulatory systems, and your finances.
Blue Dragonfly Meaning
Species of dragonflies that are blue include the blue emperor dragonfly, the blue dasher, and others.
Blue symbolizes loyalty, as in a “true blue” friend. It also symbolizes trust, faith, and wisdom.
Blue, or turquoise, symbolizes the fifth chakra. It is Vishuddha in Sanskrit. Your fifth chakra rules your ability to connect, communicate, and express yourself.
If you see a blue dragonfly, think about the messages that you are putting into the world. Even without speaking, you are constantly communicating to others. This may be in how you carry yourself, what you post on social media, whether you greet people with warmth or judgement, or even with your silence.
The blue dragonfly asks you if you are being authentic. Are you presenting yourself and are you communicating in a way that reflects the truth of who you are and the highest version of who you were meant to be? As the saying goes, “The truth will set you free.” The blue dragonfly reminds you that we all need to stand in the truth and speak our truth.
Some blue dragonflies are indigo in hue. Seeing a darker blue dragonfly can also be a sign to tune up your sixth chakra, which you can read about next.
Purple Dragonfly Meaning
Dragonflies that are purple include the roseate skimmer and the purple skimmer.
Purple is special in the way it combines the warm hues of red with the cool hues of blue. Striking this balance and creating something beautiful from this dichotomy is why purple symbolizes peace. Purple also symbolizes nobility, wealth, aspiration, and devotion.
Both your sixth and seventh chakras are shades of purple. Your sixth chakra is indigo and your seventh is violet, though some may interpret it as white.
The sixth chakra, or Ajna, rules your mind and your third eye, or intuition. Your seventh chakra, Sahasrara, is at the crown of your head, and it governs your super-conscious.
If you see a purple dragonfly, you are being called upon to tap into your higher power. Let your mind connect to this source through prayer or mediation. The purple dragonfly is an exalted symbol, one that asks you to seek out something greater than yourself. You have within you the capability to tap into a higher power and evolves. Your angels are standing by, waiting for you to reach out and ask for their help. The purple dragonfly reminds you that there is more out there, and you are capable of tapping into it.
Brown Dragonfly Symbolism
Brown hawker dragonfly (Aeshna grandis). Photo: Darkone.
Dragonflies that have brown hues include the brown hawker (Aeshna grandis), the swamp darner (Epiaeschna heros), and the striped saddlebags (Tramea calverti).
As a warm hue, brown is reminiscent of wood, soil, and the Earth. Thus, it symbolizes Earthiness, groundedness, security, and stability. The meaning of brown is exemplified in the description of someone who as “very down to Earth,” meaning they are real, easy to relate to, and without pretense.
As is the case with brown butterflies, the brown dragonfly reminds you to ground yourself and get back to basics. Honor that which is real in your life, that which truly gives you a solid foundation from which to blossom.
Seeing a brown dragonfly can also mean your home needs some attention. Does it feel like a refuge or is it a place of stress? The brown dragonfly can be a sign to make changes in your abode, such as getting some new house plants, an indoor fountain, gardening, or even playing soothing music to bring in more harmonious vibes.
Black Dragonfly Symbolism
There are a variety of dragonflies that are all black or primarily black, including black skimmers and black saddlebags.
Black symbolizes mystery, formality, elegance, and rebellion. Without black, other colors would lack variety in both depth and hue.
The black dragonfly reminds you that some matters require discretion. In our culture of over-sharing and attention-seeking, the black dragonfly reminds you that you have the privilege and a right to your privacy. It’s ok to politely shut out anyone who invades your privacy in an unwanted way.
Seeing a black dragonfly may also symbolize that you need to explore an issue in your life more deeply to truly understand it. For positive transformations to occur, we often have to “go deep” vs. just skimming the surface. If something is “not adding up to you,” go with that instinctual feeling, and explore more. A change is afoot, and the black dragonfly is telling you to investigate the unknown further.
White Dragonfly
Whitetail dragonfly. Photo: Bill Perry.
As with butterflies, a white dragonfly symbolizes purity, innocence, simplicity, clarity of thought, and angels. White is also associated with the seventh chakra, which rules your intuition and psychic abilities.
Seeing a white dragonfly can mean that an ancestor or loved one who has passed is reaching out to you. The purity of white serves as a reminder to you that whatever pain they experienced before they passed is now gone. At the same time, it serves to remind you to not focus on the pain or anguish leading up to death, but on the purity of your love and the happiness of your shared experiences. This is how you honor and celebrate their life.
Dragonfly Spirit Animal
Dragonfly spirit print by Paper Whale Cards.
While they are insects, the dragonfly is still considered to be a powerful spirit “animal.” As with other spirit animals, the dragonfly serves as a guide to help you navigate your life path here on Earth.
Your dragonfly spirit guide reminds you that you are here to learn and evolve. Born in the water, the dragonfly evolves to become an airborne being. Water represents your subconscious and the air – your intellect. Your dragonfly spirit guide reminds you to indulge your intellectual curiosity to learn and to evolve in this lifetime.
When the dragonfly is your spirit guide, pay attention to your dreams and the ideas that pop into your head, seemingly from out of nowhere. The dragonfly spirit helps you to turn your creative ideas and “aha moments” into reality in the material world.
If you are curious about other animals and insects who might be your spirit guides, you can take UniGuide’s spirit animal quiz to explore additional possibilities.
Fairy Wings
The dragonfly’s clear and iridescent wings show you the beauty and magic in life. How can something that looks so delicate, as if it’s made with air, carry something that is 15-times its body weight? In a dragonfly’s wings is the miracle of nature and the ancient wisdom of evolution. The dragonfly’s wings are also iridescent, magically reflecting every shade in the rainbow.
The dragonfly spirit animal reminds you that miracles can originate from the simplest of ideas and from things that appear to be delicate, frail, and temporal. As the author Roald Dahl said, “Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
The dragonfly spirit animal reminds you that creating something wonderful in your life starts with a vision of what you want to make happen.
Dragonfly Power Animal
As the name implies, power animals can empower you with their most dynamic traits. So, if you feel stuck in some aspect of your life and you need the courage to make changes, meditate on the dragonfly power animal. After all, the dragonfly embraces change vs. resisting it.
It’s true that people around you may feel threatened as you evolve. Think about how the dragonfly uses such finesse as they fly. The dragonfly power animal can help you make changes with delicacy and grace.
Dragonfly Totem
Animal totems encapsulate the protective powers of the animal they represent. Thus, the dragonfly totem serves as a helpful symbol when you are going through a change in your life and you need some extra energy for a positive outcome. The dragonfly totem is also a good luck symbol for bringing more opportunities into your life.
Dragonfly Dream Meaning
If you dream of a dragonfly and you’re left wondering what your dream could be telling you, consider the emotions you felt in your dream. While dream meanings and interpretations are personal to every individual, one thing we all have in common is that our sub-conscious emotions don’t lie to us.
Once you understand the emotions you felt in your dream, you can apply some of the commonly shared dragonfly meanings to your dream to gain better insights. In general, dreaming of dragonflies can mean that a change or transformation is going to happen in your life. If you felt anxiety in your dream, it can mean you need to address the reasons for those emotions while in your conscious state.
A dragonfly dream can also be messages from your spirit guides who are standing by to help you in some way. Your guides are there. Sometimes you just have to take the time to acknowledge them and assure them that you are listening and welcome their guidance.
Dragonfly Symbolism in Ancient Cultures
For as long as humans have lived on Earth, the dragonfly has been here. Thus, dragonfly symbols and folklore have existed in cultures around the world throughout human history. Here are some examples:
Celtic Mythology and Fairies
While it’s hard to find specific stories in Celtic mythology that involve dragonflies, there are many Celtic stories about fairies. If you met someone who had never seen a fairy, you might describe them as tiny, human-like beings with dragonfly wings. Thus, many historians believe that Celtic fairies were inspired by dragonflies.
Dragonfly Symbolism in Nordic Folklore
In Swedish folklore, dragonflies were viewed negatively. The Swedes of old called the dragonfly the Devil’s Steelyard. They thought the dragonfly’s body resembled a weighting tool, and that the Devil used the dragonfly to weigh people’s souls. The Swedes believed that a dragonfly circling a person was measuring the weight of their soul.
Dragonfly Symbolism in the Bible
Dragonflies are not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, for many Christians, they are representative of the rebirth of Christ and his ascent to Heaven. Dragonflies evolve dramatically in their lifetimes, just as Jesus did. This evolution is one of the tenets of Christianity: You have within you the power to do better, to forgive, and to be forgiven.
The Dragonfly in Japan
“Dragonfly and Pumpkin” by Ogata Gekko, circa 1890-1920. Giclee print by The Ibis Print Gallery.
In Japan, the dragonfly is a positive symbol who represents rebirth, courage, happiness, and the changing of the seasons – in particular, autumn. The dragonfly is also a common theme in Haiku poetry.
The dragonfly appears often in Japanese folklore. According to one Japanese legend, 2,600 years ago, Emperor Jinmu, the mythical founder of Japan, climbed a mountain. As he looked down from the summit, he said that Japan looked like a dragonfly. In another version of the story, Emperor Jinmu is bitten by a deadly mosquito but is saved because a dragonfly eats the mosquito.
Dragonfly Symbols in Feng Shui and Chinese Culture
In China, the dragonfly symbolizes summer. However, they also symbolize change and instability. In Feng Shui, a dragonfly symbolizes happiness and new beginnings. Placing dragonfly art in your home or workplace can help to bring new insights and positive change.
Native American Dragonfly Meanings
Navajo dragonfly pendant in turquoise and sterling silver.
Many Native Americans revere dragonflies, just as they do wolves, bears, owls, hummingbirds, and other living beings.
For the tribes of the American Southwest, the dragonfly is called “snake doctor” because they are believed to follow snakes and heal them if they get injured.
For the Navajo, the dragonfly is the symbol for pure water. The Hopi and Pueblo view the dragonfly as a medicine animal who is associated with transformation and healing. Among the Pueblo, it is bad luck to kill a dragonfly.
Hopi bowl with dragonfly artwork. Discovered in the location of the Hopi village Sikyátki. Circa 1400-1625 A.D. Image: Bureau of American Ethnology.
For the Zuni, the dragonfly symbolizes abundant harvests. There is a Zuni legend that tells the tale of a Zuni tribe who had to quickly leave their land. When doing so, they mistakenly left behind two children. To occupy themselves, the children made an insect doll from grass and corn.
As the land became barren because it was not being tended, the children began to starve. So, the insect doll flew away to find the goddesses of the corn. The corn goddess returned and made the land fertile again, so the children could eat. In return for the favor, the insect doll asked for a companion. The offspring of the two insect dolls were dragonflies.
For the Plains Native Americans, the dragonfly represents invincibility and protection. The Plains tribes painted dragonflies on their clothing and teepees to ward off injury and other dangers.
The Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest, such as the Tlingit, carved dragonflies in their totem poles, and the Yaqui have a dragonfly dance.
Cherokee Dragonfly Legend
Pleiades Constellation, The Seven Sisters. Photo: NASA.
The Cherokee have their own dragonfly legend. The Cherokee believed the star cluster constellation known as the Pleaides, or the Seven Sisters, was a sacred water world. They also believed that the constellation Orion was where the Dragon Serpent dwelled.
Coyote and the Dragon Serpent Story
The Dragon Serpent lived in the sky, but there was someone who was jealous of his power. Coyote, being a magician and a trickster, wanted to steal some of that power. Yet, he knew he would not be able to do it on his own. So, Coyote turned to the beautiful Dragon Goddess High Priestess, whom he knew would be able to beguile the Dragon Serpent into giving up some of his power.
So, Coyote lured the Dragon Priestess to his cave. Once she was in his lair, Coyote imprisoned her. Coyote tempted the Priestess with gifts and told her that the stars were under threat. He told her that to save the stars, she must change her shape. The Priestess resisted, but she wanted to be free of the cave and was worried about the stars. Finally, she relented and began to shapeshift.
Shapeshifting into a Dragonfly
Dragons can shapeshift into many different beings; however, Coyote was unhappy with the creatures the Dragon Priestess presented.
The Coyote decided to convince her into shapeshifting into a being whose powers he himself wanted to possess: the Dragonfly. With this disguise, Coyote knew the Dragon Serpent could be tricked.
So, the Priestess transformed herself into something even more beautiful than she herself was, a dragonfly with magical transparent and iridescent wings. As the dragonfly, she could fly through space in every direction emitting magical colors.
As the dragonfly goddess, she flew high in the sky and became aware of Coyote’s false pretenses. She had insight that he was trying to steal her power. So, she dove into the mystical water world of the Pleaides and escaped him for eternity.
Dragonfly Tattoo Meaning
The dragonfly is a wonderful symbol for a tattoo, as these magical creatures are not only beautiful but they are steeped in meaning and mythology. A dragonfly tattoo tells the world that you are a person who is spontaneous and who embraces change and new opportunities. It also speaks to your belief in a world beyond the immediate day-to-day of our physical lives. This symbol shows that you are focused on your own spiritual growth and interest in ancient wisdom. Of course, it can also mean that you believe in fairies!
Organizations that Protect Dragonflies
Dragonfly on a budding lotus flower.
Like many insects around the world, dragonfly populations are dropping due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and the impacts of climate change. If you care about dragonflies, please do what you can to protect them. Here are some organizations that are working to protect these beautiful creatures:
Citizen scientists invited to learn how to protect endangered dragonfly in northeast Michigan
A new citizen science effort led by Michigan Natural Features Inventory is looking for community involvement in protecting the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly and natural habitats at Negwegon and Thompson’s Harbor State Parks along northern Lake Huron.
Odds are you would not only recognize a dragonfly, but have likely enjoyed, firsthand, their colorful diversity and amazing aerobatics around Michigan’s abundant wetlands and waterways. On Thursday, June 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, volunteer ‘citizen scientists’ are invited to gather at the Alcona Township Hall (5576 N US Highway 23, Black River, Michigan) to help protect one particular dragonfly species—the endangered Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly—by monitoring its critical habitats in northeast Michigan.
A dragonfly is a dragonfly, right? Amazingly, some 150 species of dragonflies and damselflies (related, and in the same family as dragonflies) are known to inhabit Michigan. Their names— darners and skimmers, clubtails and graybacks, among others—are as diverse as their colorful patterns, shapes, and sizes. Equally diverse are the water and wetland habitats these species inhabit, ranging from vernal pools, wetland marshes and woodland swamps to rivers and streams, and ponds and lakes. Where there is water, you are likely to find some species of dragonfly.
Several species are quite common to us such as the Green Darner Dragonfly, referred by some as Michigan’s unofficial state insect. Yet others are more rare—even threatened or endangered— due to limited or negatively impacted water habitats. The Federally endangered Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly is one example of a rare species that provides opportunities for promoting biodiversity conservation—conservation of a variety of species and their habitats. This species is threatened, in part, due to its very specific alkaline wetland habitat requirements. High quality northern fen habitat is uncommon in the Great Lakes region. Important habitat characteristics of Hine’s Emerald sites include wetlands dominated by grasses, and sedges, which contain seeps, or slow moving rivulets; cool, shallow water slowly flowing through vegetation; and open areas in close proximity to forest edge. The shallow, flowing, cool water provides important larval habitat and the open areas with adjacent woodland edge provide adult hunting and roosting habitat. This habitat is threatened by development and the invasion of high impact, non-native species. Conservation of the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly demonstrates the critical ties between each species and their specific habitat requirements, of issue anywhere wetland habitats are encroached upon by humans and invasive species.
A new citizen science effort led by Michigan Natural Features Inventory, a program of Michigan State University Extension, aims to bolster citizen and community involvement help in protecting the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly and high quality natural habitats at Negwegon and Thompson’s Harbor State Parks (both located along the shores of northern Lake Huron). This opportunity to collaborate with local communities to train and involve citizen volunteers is possible by a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Coastal Program through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative; and is supported, locally, through a partnership with Michigan Sea Grant, Huron Pines, Friends of Negwegon and Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks Stewardship Program.
Anyone interested in learning more about these parks and this two- year project can participate in the June 12 informational session. Participating volunteers will have an opportunity to become a volunteer ‘citizen scientist’ to help find Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly larval habitat and map invasive species at the same time. Those attending the informational session will learn about unique plants, animals and natural communities that occur, here, including the extremely rare Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly, and how invasive plants threaten these important species and habitats. Participants will also get information about upcoming trainings, and how to participate in upcoming field surveys scheduled for August 4-8 and September 22-26, 2014.
Please register by June 5to attend the free presentation. To register, contact: Eric Ostrander or Colleen Higgins, Harrisville State Park (989-724-5126 or [email protected]). For more information about the Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly Project, contact: Daria Hyde, Michigan Natural Features Inventory (517-284-6189 or [email protected]).
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Dragonfly: Western energy sector targeted by sophisticated attack group
Dragonfly 2.0
Symantec has evidence indicating that the Dragonfly 2.0 campaign has been underway since at least December 2015 and has identified a distinct increase in activity in 2017.
Symantec has strong indications of attacker activity in organizations in the U.S., Turkey, and Switzerland, with traces of activity in organizations outside of these countries. The U.S. and Turkey were also among the countries targeted by Dragonfly in its earlier campaign, though the focus on organizations in Turkey does appear to have increased dramatically in this more recent campaign.
As it did in its prior campaign between 2011 and 2014, Dragonfly 2.0 uses a variety of infection vectors in an effort to gain access to a victim’s network, including malicious emails, watering hole attacks, and Trojanized software.
The earliest activity identified by Symantec in this renewed campaign was a malicious email campaign that sent emails disguised as an invitation to a New Year’s Eve party to targets in the energy sector in December 2015.
The group conducted further targeted malicious email campaigns during 2016 and into 2017. The emails contained very specific content related to the energy sector, as well as some related to general business concerns. Once opened, the attached malicious document would attempt to leak victims’ network credentials to a server outside of the targeted organization.
In July, Cisco blogged about email-based attacks targeting the energy sector using a toolkit called Phishery. Some of the emails sent in 2017 that were observed by Symantec were also using the Phishery toolkit (Trojan. Phisherly), to steal victims’ credentials via a template injection attack. This toolkit became generally available on GitHub in late 2016,
As well as sending malicious emails, the attackers also used watering hole attacks to harvest network credentials, by compromising websites that were likely to be visited by those involved in the energy sector.
The stolen credentials were then used in follow-up attacks against the target organizations. In one instance, after a victim visited one of the compromised servers, Backdoor.Goodor was installed on their machine via PowerShell 11 days later. Backdoor.Goodor provides the attackers with remote access to the victim’s machine.
In 2014, Symantec observed the Dragonfly group compromise legitimate software in order to deliver malware to victims, a practice also employed in the earlier 2011 campaigns. In the 2016 and 2017 campaigns the group is using the evasion framework Shellter in order to develop Trojanized applications. In particular, Backdoor. Dorshel was delivered as a trojanized version of standard Windows applications.
Symantec also has evidence to suggest that files masquerading as Flash updates may be used to install malicious backdoors onto target networks—perhaps by using social engineering to convince a victim they needed to download an update for their Flash player. Shortly after visiting specific URLs, a file named “install_flash_player.exe” was seen on victim computers, followed shortly by the Trojan.Karagany.B backdoor.
Typically, the attackers will install one or two backdoors onto victim computers to give them remote access and allow them to install additional tools if necessary. Goodor, Karagany.B, and Dorshel are examples of backdoors used, along with Trojan.Heriplor.
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Large and small wax moth | |
Large and small wax moths are nocturnal butterflies, and the harm is caused not by the butterflies themselves, but by their caterpillars. They are the main enemies of the bees. The large wax moth is a butterfly about 20mm long, and a streak in the wingspan of 30-35mm. The male of the large wax moth differs from the female in both appearance and behavior. The male has a rounder head, it is smaller than the female and sits in a calm state with spread wings. The female has an elongated head and, when she sits, keeps her wings gathered. A small wax moth outwardly differs little from a large one, it is just a little smaller in size and has a uniform ash-gray color without inclusions. Caterpillars of large and small wax moths are real enemies of bees and beekeeping, as they are gluttonous and cause great harm to honeycombs and wax raw materials, which they feed and need for development. So one caterpillar can eat about 0.4 grams of wax, in addition, the caterpillars, gnawing through the honeycomb, each spoil about 500 cells. A small wax moth, in contrast to a large one, moves faster and more strongly braids the moves made in the honeycomb with cobwebs. Therefore, it is important to take timely measures to combat moths. The general measures for the prevention of wax moth reproduction include good ventilation and keeping them clean and dry, the rooms where the honeycombs are stored with maintaining the temperature in them not higher than 10 degrees, since compliance with this temperature regime prevents moths from multiplying. Honeycombs affected by caterpillars are melted onto wax. Cold helps well in the fight against wax moth, that is, you can freeze the honeycomb at a temperature of -10 degrees Celsius for an hour and a half. At this temperature, the enemies of the bees die at any stage of development. | |
Earwig | |
The next no less harmful enemy of bees is the earwig insect. This is a very common insect in gardens and vegetable gardens, as its favorite delicacy is the leaves, flowers, stems, fruits and seeds of plants.Belongs to the order of leather-winged, gnawing insects. But despite her love for all sorts of fruit plants, she also eats bee bread, honey and bees with pleasure, if possible, so she poses a threat not only to gardens and vegetable gardens, but also to beekeeping farms. An earwig, making its way into the hive, settles in an insulating material or in any other free place in the hive and with its presence not only irritates the bees, but also eats honey and bee bread, multiplies and is thus capable of causing great harm to the apiary, if preventive measures are not taken in time, or whether do not fight this enemy of the bees. You can read about breeding prevention methods and how to get rid of earwigs in the apiary here. | |
The hunchback fly | |
The humpback fly is a small dipteran insect, only 3-4 mm long, gray in color. The name of the fly is due to the characteristic location of the chest part, or rather its elevation in the form of a hump. The hunchback fly is one of the enemies of bees, as they use the cells of the combs for the purpose of reproduction.She acts in a very peculiar way. The fly enters the hive and lays eggs in open brood cells. After three hours, a fly larva emerges from the egg, which is introduced into the bee brood, the bees seal the almost dead bee larva. After a week, the fly larva gnaws the lid of the sealed larva, falls to the bottom of the hive and pupates. After 12 days, an adult fly appears, the development cycle of which is repeated. | |
Ants | |
Ants are seemingly harmless insects, but they can cause very great harm to bee colonies.They are enemies of bees because, having attacked a hive with bees, they can pull out up to a kilogram of honey from it in a day, in addition, they eat bee bread, larvae and are able to destroy adult bees. They can form their nests inside the insulating materials and bring a lot of anxiety to the bees. It is worth emphasizing that ants mainly attack weak colonies that are not able to give a proper rebuff to the attack, therefore, if problems associated with ant theft appear in the apiary, this can be regarded as a signal that the apiary has weakened and measures must be taken to build up bee colonies. Ant control measures are here | |
Filants or bee wolves | |
Filants or bee wolves are large earth wasps whose livelihoods are directly dependent on bees, as they feed on them and no other insects can replace bees with them. In the absence of bees, philanthropists die out, since, forming their nests in the ground, they feed their larvae with bees, which have a remarkable appetite, each eating 4-6 bees, in addition, they eat honey.Therefore, philanthropists are the real enemies of bees and apiaries, and if they appear on the beekeeping farm, it is imperative to take urgent measures to destroy them and prevent reproduction. What measures to take to combat philanthropists or bee wolves can be read here. | |
Dragonfly-rocker | |
Dragonfly-rocker – familiar to many inhabitants of places near reservoirs or water. It has large transparent yellow wings, a large head with large jaws and an elongated body. Basically, dragonflies feed on mosquitoes, midges, thus it would seem they are not an obvious enemy of bees and, on the contrary, are beneficial, ridding the neighborhood of bloodsuckers. But in some years it happens that dragonflies multiply in large numbers and there are too many of them, during such periods the threat to bee colonies increases significantly, there is a risk of dragonflies attacking bees, and this can lead to massive losses in the apiary and even the death of queens. As such, there are no means of protecting bees from dragonflies, just sometimes it can help to temporarily remove hives with bees in the winter house or for a short time deprive the bees of the opportunity to fly out of the hive. | |
Ktyri | |
Ktyri are another enemies of bees, found mainly in the steppe, desert and semi-desert zones, virgin lands, multiplying in the ground. There are different types, depending on what they differ, both in size and in color. But irrespective of the species, the danger of worms lies in the fact that with a large number of them, they are able to destroy all insects in the area, including bees, therefore, the best protection of bees during a period of large accumulation of worms is to transport the apiary to a safer place. | |
Hornets | |
Hornets are large wasps, the body length of which reaches 3 cm. They form their nests in tree nests, under the roofs of buildings, in old hives. By the spring, only female hornets survive, which lay eggs from which working hornets emerge in spring, and later, by autumn, males and females. Hornets are very dangerous enemies of bees, since the latter are rather easy prey for them, hornets feed their larvae with bees, first chewing them. Therefore, the beekeeper, having found these enemies of bees on the site, must immediately take measures to destroy their nests by lighting them with sulfur and carbon disulfide. | |
Bee-eater | |
As we already wrote, bees have a lot of enemies not only among insects, but also among birds. So the golden bee-eater can be singled out – the enemy number one among birds for bees. This small schooling bird with a beautiful golden plumage, with a long beak (up to 3.5 cm), is distinguished by an extraordinary gluttony, eating up to 700 or even 1000 bees right in flight per day, and if there are bees in its habitat, it It feeds mainly on them, thus, in 2-3 months of hunting, a flock of such birds is capable of causing irreparable damage to the apiary, you cannot count on a good honey harvest. Bee eaters are not afraid of stinging bees. And since no really effective methods of dealing with golden bee-eater have been invented, the best way to protect bees from these enemies of bees is to take the apiary to a safer place. Some beekeepers do try shooting guns in the air to scare birds away, as well as installing nets in their places of flight, but these methods cannot guarantee a long-term effect or 100% protection of bees. The golden bee-eater is a migratory bird and flies to the place of its birth annually in April-May, it brings the greatest harm to the apiary in July-August during the release of young animals.This bird nests in the ground, creating nests on cliffs near rivers. | |
Mice | |
Other enemies of bees that cause beekeepers a lot of trouble are mice. These rodents penetrate into household buildings, gnaw on honeycombs, climb into hives, eating honey bee bread and even bees. Sometimes strong bee colonies can fight back an intruder by pinching them to death. But more often, if a mouse enters the hive, especially in winter, then by its presence it irritates the bees, which cannot stand the smell of the mouse.Restless bees consume more food and by the spring, as a rule, significantly weakened colonies come out, there is a great risk of developing nosema disease in bees. Therefore, protecting the apiary from mice is an important part of the beekeeper’s job. There are several ways to protect the apiary from these enemies of bees. You can read about the methods of dealing with mice here. |
Dragonflies | Descriptions and photos of animals
Dragonflies are one of the oldest insects on our planet, approximately 330 million years old.Dragonflies appeared at the beginning of the Carboniferous period, that is, long before the dinosaurs. Representatives of this order are distinguished by a slender body at least 30 mm long, a large movable head, a large chest and a long narrow abdomen. Most of the head is occupied by large, brightly colored, usually blue, green, or red eyes; antennae in dragonflies are very short, mouth organs are gnawing, legs are short and very tenacious. Dragonflies also have long, narrow wings with a very dense network of veins. During flight, dragonflies flap their front and rear pairs of wings alternately, achieving better maneuverability and higher speed (the maximum flight speed of these insects can reach 50 km / h).In front of the wings of dragonflies, not far from the summit, a dark thickening is clearly visible – pterostigma, dampening dangerous vibrations and self-oscillations of the wings in flight, which can damage the wings when a certain speed limit is exceeded.
All dragonflies are predators – adult insects feed on various insects, grabbing prey on the fly. It’s amazing that these gorgeous flyers even mate on the fly. The copulatory apparatus in males is highly specialized and has no analogues among insects – it removes the sperm of the predecessor before leaving its own. Dragonfly eggs are laid in water or tissues of aquatic plants, less often in wet soil. Dragonfly larvae (called naiads) develop in water and breathe with gills. The transformation in dragonflies is incomplete. The larvae have a strongly elongated lower lip, which forms a grasping organ – a mask. When capturing prey, it is thrown forward, while at rest it covers its head from below and / or from the sides. Dragonfly larvae are also predators, they feed on larvae of aquatic insects, sometimes attack tadpoles and fish fry. During the period of their development, they pass 7-15 molts, and the total development time of the egg and larva can last up to five years.Before the emergence of an adult dragonfly, the larva of the last instar does not feed for several days, then crawls out of the water onto the shore and climbs a plant, stump, stone or cliff. The skin on the upper side of the breast breaks longitudinally, and an adult dragonfly appears from the larval skin.
The order of dragonflies includes over 5600 species, most of which live in the tropics and subtropics. In Russia, about 150 species of dragonflies are widespread throughout the country (with the exception of arid regions).
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5 best amulets from the evil eye – Women’s magazine “GOLD”
If you think that you are being pursued by failures, take a closer look at protective amulets. These items are considered powerful amulets against backbiting and envy.
If it seems to you that lately you have been haunted by failures, take a closer look at protective amulets. These items have long been considered powerful amulets against backbiting and envy.
Pin
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The pin is one of the most famous amulets against the evil eye. Our ancestors were sure: it is enough to attach it to clothes (preferably in the area of the heart), and this simple object will protect you from envy, condemnation and slander of strangers.At the same time, the amulet acts not only on the owner, but also protects his house and loved ones.
The magical properties of the pin were associated with its shape: it was believed that the spiral takes away negative energy and locks it in itself. It is not necessary to decorate the pin with additional amulets, but if you add symbols that attract good luck to it, for example, a four-leaf clover or a heart, this will only enhance the magical properties of the item.
Dragonfly
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Dragonfly is an insect that appeared on the earth more than one hundred and eighty million years ago.And since ancient times, various peoples have endowed it with magical properties. In Japan, the dragonfly was called a little dragon and was considered a symbol of courage and courage. In some Indian tribes, it was believed that the souls of departed people turn into dragonflies, which, subsequently, protect the living from harm.
See also: Money magnets – 5 talismans for financial well-being >>>>>
Most likely, the color of the insect made you believe in the magical properties of the insect. The coating on the body of a dragonfly is capable of reflecting light, creating amazing colors.By the same principle, according to legends, protection from the evil eye also works. The dragonfly reflects everything bad, returning bad thoughts to ill-wishers. This is why dragonfly amulets are still used in various cultures today.
Scarab beetle
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Another insect that can protect you from troubles and other people’s envy is the scarab beetle. The inhabitants of Egypt endowed him with magic power. They were sure that it was the beetle that rolled the sun across the sky.Similar scenes are depicted in ancient Egyptian frescoes. According to myths, all animals came from the waters of the sacred Nile River, and only the scarab from the sunny desert. Therefore, in the image of this insect, Khepri, the god of the rising sun, was portrayed.
See also: Talismans of love – 5 adornments that will make your feelings mutual >>>>>
An amulet in the shape of a scarab beetle is a concentration of solar energy that prevents bad things from penetrating into the owner’s life. Thanks to its inner light, such a talisman will protect you not only from the evil eye, but also from blues and melancholy.
Hand of Hamsa
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Hamsa is an ancient oriental amulet in the shape of a palm, according to legend – a female one. Other names for this amulet are the hand of Fatima or the hand of Miriam. An open palm, which depicts an eye, serves as protection from the backbiting of others, makes the owner less susceptible to other people’s opinions and develops inner strength.
Read also: Birthstone is your main talisman >>>>>
An open palm amulet can be worn as a decoration or used to protect your home.It is believed that hamsa of blue shades has the strongest protective properties. Therefore, it is better to choose a talisman decorated with stones: for example, colored cubic zirconia, topaz or blue quartz.
Cat
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“In ancient times, cats were worshiped as gods. Animals have not forgotten about this until now, ”says a well-known aphorism. Indeed, human furry friends are still held in high esteem in many countries.In Egypt, for example, cats are still revered as deities, and in Cyprus these animals are under state protection.
As protection from the evil eye, cat figurines are used, which are placed in the apartment or worn as decoration. It is believed that such a talisman takes away negative energy and absorbs aggression directed at you.
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A stone called “cat’s eye” also has a similar power. It is a type of chrysoberyl mineral.In the Middle Ages, the cat’s eye was used for magical rituals, and now in jewelry. At first glance, simple earrings or a ring can protect the owner from an evil eye and damage.
Alena Yarkova
Dragonflies in Heroes 3
Attack: | 8 | |||||
Defense: | 10 | |||||
Health: | 20 | |||||
Damage: | 2-5 | |||||
Attack Type: | near | |||||
Shots: | no | |||||
Faction: | Fortress | Speed: | 13 | |||
Level: | 3 | Movement: | flying | |||
Price: | 240 | Increment: | 8 | |||
Hires: | Improved Uliy Serpent | |||||
Special skills | ||||||
• Dispel magic.When attacking an enemy squad, it removes all positive effects of spells from it. • Attenuation. Attacking an enemy squad, it poisons it with poison, which weakens its attack by 6 units for three turns (acts as an advanced-level Weakness spell). | ||||||
Heroes with specialty | ||||||
Korbak | After the 3rd level, with each subsequent level increases the attack and defense of the Serpents and Dragonflies, which he commands. | |||||
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DRAGONFLY ARE DIFFERENT | Science and Life
Male of “shining beauty” (Homoptera detachment).
This dragonfly, called the “reddish yoke”, never folds its wings.
Here he is, “ordinary old man”.
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Of the whole variety of dragonflies, about 150 species live in Russia. Homoptera dragonflies are especially beautiful. These graceful creatures, having descended on a plant, fold their wings over a thin long belly. Larger dragonflies from the squad of unequal-winged wings never fold, and the silhouettes of these insects are somewhat reminiscent of combat helicopters with large “fuselages” under their wings: the most powerful “engines” – muscles are concentrated there. Their rapid flight with breathtaking aerobatics is amazing
All dragonflies are predators.The female lays eggs in water or on aquatic plants.
The eggs hatch into larvae, which, living in the water, wait for prey (tadpoles,
fish fry) in ambush. Upon seeing the victim, the larva throws forward the lower jaw
– a mask that grabs prey. Larvae developing in water, by bloodlust
are not inferior to adults. I remember somehow they brought it to a fish farm
fry of a rare sturgeon fish – paddlefish. They released me into a small pond. Developed
measures to protect from the air from herons and gulls.But they did not take into account the more formidable danger,
that lay in wait in the water. When they realized it, it was too late: to get rid of
with slow-moving fish, dragonfly larvae were enough for two weeks.
The larvae themselves, however, can also find themselves on the table with larger fish, therefore they disguise themselves as the color of aquatic vegetation.
Dragonflies are insects with incomplete transformation: not a pupa is formed from a larva, but an adult insect. Despite the fact that dragonflies are diurnal insects, their eyes are huge.To see a prey from an ambush, a predator must control a large airspace. A lot of midges, mosquitoes, flies and even butterflies become the prey of the catcher.
Dragonfly – hunter and acrobat.
Dragonfly – hunter and acrobat.
Dragonflies are predatory insects that save us from mosquitoes and other insects. Dragonflies are distinguished by their elegance and beauty – they are real beauties over the water.
Dragonflies form a very large order. Of the 3,700 species known to science, only about 80 live in Central Europe, and they all depend on water bodies.Dragonflies are divided into two large groups: heteroptera and unequiptera. Homoptera dragonflies at rest keep their wings horizontally extended. Their large compound eyes rotate in the front of their heads. These are large insects. The back of the body, which is often covered with variegated spots, are true masters of flying art, developing speeds of up to 50 km / h. Unequilateral dragonflies at rest fold their wings over the body.
They have small and wide-set eyes.The back of the body of these graceful insects is usually thin and uniformly colored. In flight, they flutter like butterflies. Dragonflies are predators that catch other insects on the fly and therefore benefit us to some extent. Their hunting grounds can be gardens, meadows or forest edges, located far from water. However, for reproduction, dragonflies need reservoirs. During mating, the female and male form a typical mating ring. Even after mating, which can last from several seconds to an hour or more, unequal dragonflies remain pressed against each other and so, in tandem flight, fly together to the place of oviposition.Large dragonflies lay their eggs directly on water or on some floating object, while small ones carefully attach their eggs to the leaves and trunks of plants. Dragonfly larvae live in water, where they lead a predatory lifestyle, however, they themselves can become victims of large fish, having overwintered three times and molted many times, the larvae get out of the water along the stems of aquatic plants. After a while, their skin bursts, and an adult dragonfly gets out of it.
Dry and rested. Dragonflies spread their wings and go in search of food and a partner.Before the onset of autumn, they need to have time to leave behind offspring. Dragonflies do not have sharp eyesight. But they catch the slightest movement. They eat primarily mosquitoes and larvae, and, in addition, other flying insects. Dragonfly larvae develop in water and feed on tadpoles, worms, crustaceans and even fish fry. The enemies of dragonflies are birds that catch them in flight or at the time of hatching from a pupa. During the laying of eggs, dragonflies become prey for frogs.Many of them die, entangled in spider webs.
The main habitat of dragonflies is a natural pond. Big pond. Where there are no fish, it can serve as a breeding ground. Here dragonflies and their larvae will find and write. Swampy flower bed – such a flower bed serves as a habitat for many insects that dragonflies feed on. Not suitable for breeding. Stream flow – The stream should have several areas of standing water. Then it will become a habitat for a large number of dragonfly species. Aquatic Plants – Tall plants growing out of the water are required for the dragonfly larvae to get out of the water before transforming.
Here are the favorite dragonfly plants:
– marsh turkey – flowers from white to pink, located on straight stems, shoots with fine-pinnate leaves lie in the water, grows to a depth of 50 cm, plant height 20-60 cm.
– common calamus – yellowish flowers are collected on the cob, blooms from May to July. The leaves are long. Belt-like, wildly growing, grows to a depth of 20 cm. Plant height 60-120 cm.
– long runny – brownish inflorescences, from July to October, long stems with xiphoid leaves, grows to a depth of 30 cm and a height of 60-120 cm.
– broad-leaved cattail – dense, brown-black bulbous inflorescences appear from August, they rise above wide, belt-like leaves, a thriving plant grows to a depth of 50 cm and reaches a height of 1-2 meters.
– large manna – greenish to light purple panicles of flowers, bloom from July to August, long, round stems, belt-like leaves, thriving plants, grows at a depth of 20cm and reaches a height of 40-160cm.
– common marsh – brownish ovoid ears, from May to August blooms, pointed, erect stems, a thriving plant, grows at a depth of up to 30 cm and reaches a height of 50-100 cm.
– branchy rush – brownish flowers grow on the sides of the stems, blooms from June to August, the leaves are pointed, rounded, wildly growing, grows to a depth of 20 cm and reaches a height of 30-150 cm.
– acute sedge – flowers are red-brown, blooms from May to June, sharp, triangular, arched stems hanging down, wildly growing plant. It grows to a depth of 30 cm and reaches a height of 40-80cm.
– lake reed – red-brown flowers, blooms from June to August.The stems are hollow and rounded, a thriving plant that grows at a depth of 30 cm and reaches a height of 1-3 meters.
– Pontederia cordial – blue flowers. They bloom from June to September, the leaves are large, heart-shaped, erect, wildly growing plant, grows to a depth of 30 cm and reaches a height of 60-100 cm.
– marsh iris – yellow flowers, blooms from May to June, xiphoid leaves.