Dragonflies in Hawaii: Identification Guide and Best Places to Start
Yes, Hawaii has several species of dragonflies, including the endemic Hawaiian koa damselfly and the common green darner. Start your search near wetlands, ponds, and slow-moving streams on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Early mornings and rainy periods offer the best odds.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Kauai Mountain Damselfly · Nick Block CC BY
Alakai Swamp Damselfly · nmoorhatch CC BY
Slender Kauai Damselfly · Public domain CC0
- 8
- species recorded
- 2,629
- GBIF records
- June, May, October
- peak months
Yes, dragonflies are in Hawaii. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
25 types of dragonflies recorded in Hawaii
25 dragonfly species have a verified observation record in Hawaii across dragonflies and damselflies (order Odonata), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
6 of the 25 shown are recorded as introduced to Hawaii rather than native, and 16 are endemic to Hawaii, found here and effectively nowhere else.
1
2
3
4
5
6- 7
- No openly licensed photo yet8
Hawaiian Upland Damselfly
Megalagrion hawaiiense
87 recordsEndemic - 9
- No openly licensed photo yet10
Beautiful Hawaiian Damselfly
Megalagrion calliphya
65 recordsEndemic - No openly licensed photo yet11
Scarlet Kauai Damselfly
Megalagrion vagabundum
60 recordsEndemic - 12
Also recorded in Hawaii
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Blackburn's Hawaiian DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion blackburni | Megalagrion blackburni | 56 |
| 14 | Fragile ForktailIntroducedIschnura posita | Ischnura posita | 41 |
| 15 | Koele Mountain DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion koelense | Megalagrion koelense | 36 |
| 16 | Vermilion SaddlebagsIntroducedTramea abdominalis | Tramea abdominalis | 36 |
| 17 | Blackburn DragonflyEndemicNesogonia blackburni | Nesogonia blackburni | 35 |
| 18 | Oahu DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion oahuense | Megalagrion oahuense | 32 |
| 19 | Familiar BluetIntroducedEnallagma civile | Enallagma civile | 29 |
| 20 | Blackline Hawaiian DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion nigrohamatum | Megalagrion nigrohamatum | 29 |
| 21 | Kauai Bog DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion paludicola | Megalagrion paludicola | 26 |
| 22 | Black SaddlebagsNativeTramea lacerata | Tramea lacerata | 25 |
| 23 | Frosty Hawaiian DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion eudytum | Megalagrion eudytum | 22 |
| 24 | Orangeblack Hawaiian DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion xanthomelas | Megalagrion xanthomelas | 10 |
| 25 | Kauai ʻIeʻie DamselflyEndemicMegalagrion kauaiense | Megalagrion kauaiense | 10 |
Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
2,723 verified observations on iNaturalist of dragonfly have been recorded in Hawaii, most often in June, May, October.
When dragonfly are recorded in Hawaii
Yes, Hawaii has several species of dragonflies, including the endemic Hawaiian koa damselfly and the common green darner. Start your search near wetlands, ponds, and slow-moving streams on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Early mornings and rainy periods offer the best odds.
1. Where are dragonflies most likely to be seen in Hawaii?
Dragonflies in Hawaii are most often seen near freshwater sources. Head to the wetlands of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, the ponds at Kapiolani Park on Oahu, or the marshy edges of Lake Wilson. Backyard ponds and stream banks on the windward sides of the islands also hold consistent populations.
See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step.
In Hawaii, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
2. What season or weather patterns help with dragonfly spotting?
The best dragonfly activity occurs during the wetter months (November to March) when standing water is plentiful. However, you can spot them year-round. Overcast days with light rain often bring them out in force, as they hunt for mosquitoes and midges. Sunny mornings after a rain shower are prime time.
3. Simple ID cues that separate dragonflies from lookalikes
Dragonflies have two pairs of equal-sized wings held perpendicular to the body when at rest. Damselflies, often mistaken for small dragonflies, hold their wings folded along the body. Look for large, compound eyes that meet at the top of the head in dragonflies, versus separated eyes in damselflies.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Common dragonfly species you can find in Hawaii
The introduced common green darner (Anax junius) and the wandering glider (Pantala flavescens) are widespread. The endemic orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas) is a must-see, found in protected wetlands on Oahu and Maui. Other species include the blue-eyed darner and the striped meadowhawk.
5. Best times of day to spot dragonflies
Dragonflies are most active between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on warm days. Early morning (just after sunrise) is excellent for seeing them emerge from their nymphal stage if you camp near water. Avoid windy afternoons; they shelter low in vegetation.
6. How to photograph dragonflies without scaring them
Move slowly and wear neutral colors. Use a telephoto lens or a macro lens with a long focal length. Approach from the side or back, never casting a shadow over the dragonfly. Early morning when they are cold and less active gives you the best chances for a close approach.
7. Dragonfly gear and stickers to remember your sightings
After a successful day of spotting, bring the dragonfly spirit home. TheColorful Dragonfly Sticker Setfeatures detailed illustrations of common species. For a wearable reminder, theDragonfly T-Shirtis a comfortable addition to any field kit. Check out moredragonfly stickersand otherwildlife items.
Colorful Dragonfly Stickers, Insect Decals, Planner Decorations
This ten-sticker sheet captures the iridescent wings and vivid colors of Hawaii's dragonflies. Perfect for decorating a field journal or water bottle.Check Price and Availability
Dragonfly T-Shirt
A lightweight tee ideal for hiking Hawaiian trails. The subtle dragonfly print blends with any outdoor outfit.Check Price and Availability
3dRose Common Green Darner Mug
This two-tone yellow mug features a photo of the common green darner, a species you are likely to see. Start your morning with a reminder of your wetland walks.Check Price and Availability
8. Frequently asked questions about dragonflies in Hawaii
**Are dragonflies native to Hawaii?** About 25 of the 40 species are endemic, meaning they evolved here. The rest arrived naturally or via human activity.
**Can dragonflies bite?** They can bite if handled roughly, but it is rare and not dangerous. They are harmless to humans.
**What is the best island for dragonfly watching?** Oahu and Kauai offer the most accessible wetland habitats. The Big Island's Hamakua Coast also has excellent streamside populations.
**Do dragonflies eat mosquitoes?** Yes, both adults and nymphs prey on mosquitoes, making them beneficial in Hawaii.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Plan your trip
Best time to see dragonfly in Hawaii: June, May, October
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your dragonfly sighting in Hawaii
2,629 verified dragonfly records have been logged in Hawaii, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Hawaii
- Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Haleakalā National Park · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What dragonfly species live in Hawaii?+
Dragonflies in Hawaii are most often seen near freshwater sources. Head to the wetlands of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, the ponds at Kapiolani Park on Oahu, or the marshy edges of Lake Wilson. Backyard ponds and stream banks on the windward sides of the islands also hold consistent populations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step. In Hawaii, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see dragonflies in Hawaii?+
Dragonflies in Hawaii are most often seen near freshwater sources. Head to the wetlands of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, the ponds at Kapiolani Park on Oahu, or the marshy edges of Lake Wilson. Backyard ponds and stream banks on the windward sides of the islands also hold consistent populations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step. In Hawaii, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see dragonflies in Hawaii?+
Dragonflies in Hawaii are most often seen near freshwater sources. Head to the wetlands of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, the ponds at Kapiolani Park on Oahu, or the marshy edges of Lake Wilson. Backyard ponds and stream banks on the windward sides of the islands also hold consistent populations. See ourstate wildlife pagefor the next step. In Hawaii, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see dragonfly
More wildlife in Hawaii
Common questions about dragonflies