How Do Mosquitoes Turn Into Dragonflies?
During a warm summer season, mosquitoes are a common nuisance. These insects are known to carry viruses that can be passed to humans. There are ways to fight mosquitoes that do not involve spraying chemicals in your yard. One such method is to add pollinator plants. This will attract small insects such as bees and butterflies.
Another method is to use essential oils to keep mosquitoes away. If you are using bug sprays, keep in mind that the active ingredient DEET provides added protection.
If you want to attract dragonflies to your yard, you should plant native plants that attract pollinating insects. These include water lilies, irises, buttercups, and other plants that are good for pollination.
While dragonflies will not bite humans, they do eat insects and other pests. They also eat mosquito larvae. Adult dragonflies can eat up to 100 mosquitoes each day. Despite the large number of mosquitoes that dragonflies eat, they are not enough to significantly affect mosquito populations.
Another natural predator of mosquitoes is damselflies. Damselflies eat mosquito larvae, tadpoles, and fish. They also are a natural predator of other insects, including flies, gnats, and beetles. They require different types of vegetation around water, such as floating plants, emergent plants, and trees.
When temperature rises, dragonflies become active. They snare flying insects with rapid twisting motions. They may also perch in the shade when it’s hot.
Dragonflies are a great addition to your yard. They can also be attracted to items with standing water, such as bird baths. Adding a lead-free hose to a bird bath can help dislodge mosquito larvae.