Not a snake (Dragonfly)

Anisoptera indet. (Order Odonata) • Order: Odonata, Suborder: Anisoptera (None: This is an insect, not a snake)

Global distribution except Antarctica; dragonflies are found on every continent except the southernmost one.

Non-venomous; dragonflies lack fangs or venom glands.

Harmless; they possess no stinger and pose no threat to humans.

Order: Odonata, Suborder: Anisoptera (None: This is an insect, not a snake)

Varies by species; many Odonates are listed as Least Concern, though some wetland specialists are threatened.

Physical Description

The image shows an insect with two pairs of large, transparent wings, a segmented body, and large compound eyes. It is currently in flight.

Variable by species; usually 2 to 5 inches in wingspan. This specimen appears to be an adult insect.

Primarily found near freshwater sources like ponds, lakes, and streams where their aquatic nymphs develop.

Diurnal, active aerial predators known for extreme maneuverability and speed.

Carnivorous; they eat midges, mosquitoes, and other small flying insects caught mid-air.

Hemimetabolous; eggs are laid in or near water, hatching into aquatic nymphs (naiads).

Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.

Often confused with Damselflies (Zygoptera), which hold their wings folded over their backs when resting.

Varies by species; many Odonates are listed as Least Concern, though some wetland specialists are threatened.

Often seen as symbols of change, transformation, and adaptability; they are vital for mosquito population control.

Capable of flying in any direction, including backwards and hovering, thanks to independent wing control.

Identified on 6/29/2026