Nature Revealed: Dragonflies and Damselflies

Dragonflies and damselflies comprise the insect order Odonata. These raptors of the insect world are important in both terrestrial and aquatic food webs. The adults’ beautiful colors and easily observable habits have spawned an increasing interest among birders and other naturalists. In this workshop you’ll hear about how dragonflies and damselflies make their livings. You’ll learn intimate details of Odonate sex, and you’ll find out answers to such questions as: Is it possible to breathe and poop via the same orifice? Can dragonflies prey on birds? And what is the killer lip?

Class schedule: about 60 minutes in the classroom and 60 minutes of walking, depending on the weather. Wear walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Feel free to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars (we’ll have some binoculars available to borrow).

Instructor bio: Bob is a member of the Board of Directors of the Katy Prairie Conservancy. Professionally, he is an environmental consultant addressing such diverse issues as endangered species, wetlands, and sustainable development. His natural history pursuits have focused particularly on birds, dragonflies, and damselflies.