102 Types of Dragonflies in Illinois

1. What are the most common dragonflies in Illinois?

You will most likely spot the **Common Green Darner** (Anax junius) - a large, green thorax dragonfly with a blue abdomen in males. The **Eastern Pondhawk** (Erythemis simplicicollis) is common around vegetated ponds; males have a greenish-white face and blue body. The **Black Saddlebags** (Tramea lacerata) has dark patches near the wing bases and often patrols fields. **Widow Skimmer** (Libellula luctuosa) has white wing bands and a dark body. Look for them near water but they also hunt over lawns and roads.

2. Where in Illinois do you usually see dragonflies first?

The best odds are around still or slow-moving water:Illinois wildlife refugeslike **Horseshoe Lake**, **Carlyle Lake**, and the **Emiquon Preserve**. Also try **Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie** and **Kankakee River State Park**. Start at any pond edge or marshy shoreline; dragonflies perch on cattails and reeds. You can also find them in open fields far from water when they are feeding.

3. What is the best time of year to spot dragonflies in Illinois?

The peak season runs from **late May through early September**. Warm, sunny days with light winds bring the highest activity. Late June to early August is ideal for most species. Early morning and late afternoon are good for perching behavior, while midday is best for hunting flights. Some species like the Common Green Darner migrate south in fall, so you may see large numbers in September.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. How do you tell dragonflies apart from damselflies?

Look at the wings and body posture. Dragonflies hold their wings **out horizontally** when at rest, while damselflies fold them **along the body** (or slightly open). Dragonflies have thicker, heavier bodies and larger eyes that meet at the top. Damselflies are slender, with eyes separated on each side. Both are in the order Odonata, but these differences make quick ID easier.

5. What are the key field marks for Illinois dragonflies?

Focus on **wing patterns**, **color of the thorax and abdomen**, and **eye color**. For example, the Common Green Darner has a green thorax, blue abdomen (male), and a bullseye mark on the face. The Eastern Pondhawk male has a blue abdomen with a greenish face; females are green and brown. Black Saddlebags have dark blotches at the base of the hindwings.Learn more about dragonfly identificationfor a complete guide.

7. Want to take dragonfly memories home?

If you want to keep a piece of these aerial hunters, check out a few fun items. They make great reminders of a good day in the field.

Colorful Dragonfly Stickers, Insect Decals, Planner Decorations

A set of vibrant stickers featuring different dragonfly species. Perfect for notebooks, water bottles, or gear.Check Price and Availability

Dragonfly T-Shirt

A comfortable shirt with a dragonfly design. Wear it on your next outing.Check Price and Availability

3dRose Common Green Darner on Water Primrose in wetland Effingham Co. IL 15oz Two-Tone Yellow Mug

A mug featuring the Common Green Darner photographed in Illinois. Great for morning coffee.Check Price and Availability

You can alsobrowse wildlife stickersfor more designs.

8. Frequently asked questions about dragonflies in Illinois

**Q: Are there any rare dragonflies in Illinois?** Yes. The **Hine's Emerald** (Somatochlora hineana) is a federally endangered species found in a few places in northern Illinois, especially in the Des Plaines River corridor.

**Q: Do dragonflies bite or sting?** No. They are harmless to humans. They do not sting, and they rarely bite (only if handled roughly, and it does not break skin).

**Q: What do dragonflies eat?** They eat mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and other small insects. A single dragonfly can eat hundreds of mosquitoes per day.

**Q: How long do dragonflies live?** Most of their life (up to several years) is spent as aquatic larvae. The adult stage lasts only a few weeks to a few months.

**Q: Can you attract dragonflies to your yard?** Yes. Build a small pond with plants like cattails and rushes. Avoid pesticides and provide perching sticks. They will naturally come to hunt.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.