Dobsonfly (Female)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found near clean, fast-moving rivers or streams with rocky bottoms where larvae (hellgrammites) develop.

Diet & Feeding

Adults eat very little or nothing at all during their short lifespan, focusing on reproduction; larvae are predatory, eating aquatic insects.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and attracted to bright lights. After 2 to 3 years as aquatic larvae, they emerge to live only a few days as adults to mate and lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Females can deliver a painful bite if handled, though they are not venomous. They are excellent ecological indicators of high water quality.

Identified on: 5/26/2026