Common Green Darner

Natural Habitat

Freshwater habitats such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams; often found in meadows or backyards during migration.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous. Adults catch flying insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths mid-air; nymphs (larvae) eat aquatic insects, tadpoles, and small fish.

Behavior Patterns

Highly skilled aerial predators known for migration patterns; they are active during the day and can hover or fly backwards. Life cycle includes an aquatic nymph stage before transforming into flying adults.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to the ecosystem as they control populations of mosquitoes and other pest insects; they are harmless to humans and do not sting.

Identified on: 6/26/2026