Dragonflies and Other Insects Play Dead to Avoid Predators

Many insects use a variety of defensive tactics to avoid predators. These strategies can include chemical sprays, stings, and bites. However, some insects have evolved other strategies, such as playing dead, to escape their predators. When an insect appears dead to a predator, it loses interest and often escapes without being harmed. This behavior often looks like a “stop, drop, and roll” motion and is a good way for the insect to hide without being noticed.

Flies are known to lay hundreds of eggs in their lifetime, and they will search for a warm, dry spot to lay their eggs. If you notice that a fly is dead or is just lying on the ground, you may want to wash it immediately. You should also avoid eating anything that the fly touched.

In addition to dragonflies, many insect species, including dragonflies, play dead to avoid predators. This behavior is widespread and is thought to have evolved in female dragonflies to ward off male predators. It has also been observed in male spiders and the robber fly in order to deceive a potential suitor.

Despite this, some flies exhibit Batesian mimicry. The resulting pheromones are responsible for attracting flies, and killing a fly attracts more flies.