“There are some four million different kinds of animals and plants in the world. Four million different solutions to the problem of staying alive” ~ Sir David Attenborough

Over the summer months, I am astounded at the influx of insects in their magnificent shapes and sizes and the kaleidoscope of colours flashing through the sky. And in this specific case, I am not referring to any of the brightly colourful and gorgeous birds that also take to the sky, but rather am turning everyone’s attention to the hive of insect activity, with particular emphasis on the dragonflies and butterflies. Often seen in the most flamboyant of colours buzzing around it draws one’s attention in.

So often, upon first glance at these insects, one immediately jumps to the conclusion that they are all dragonflies. Well, it might shock a good number of you to learn that you could have been wrong all this time. Dragonflies do make up the majority of what we see, but they can also be confused with a few other insects such as damselflies, groundlings, and even antlions. At Londolozi, there is a vast array of species of all of the above, so let us take a closer look at what differentiates them and how to identify each species.

Dragonflies

Dragonflies are a common sight at Londolozi during the summer season. These insects are known for their large size, with some species reaching up to four inches in length. Their wings are long and narrow, and they have a robust body that is often brightly coloured. Dragonflies are active during the day and are known for being swift and agile in flight. They have two sets of wings that beat independently, allowing them to fly in any direction with ease as well as hover effortlessly. 

One of the most distinguishing features of dragonflies is their eyes. These insects have large, multifaceted eyes that cover most of their heads. Their eyes are incredibly sensitive to movement, allowing them to track their prey with precision. Dragonflies are voracious predators that feed on other insects, including mosquitoes, flies, bees, or anything in that size category that they are able to overpower. They are incredibly efficient hunters and can catch their prey in mid-air using their strong jaws. Recently, while crossing the Sand River at sunset, we stopped to admire the scenery and noticed an abundance of dragonflies racing around just above the surface in hot pursuit of any other insect drawn to the water, hawking in to catch them!

Groundlings

Groundlings, also known as stoneflies, are another insect commonly found at Londolozi. Although called groundlings, they are part of the dragonfly family. These insects are typically found near rivers and streams and are known for their distinctive appearance. Groundlings are often dull or red in colour or have bands. They have a flattened body that is wider than it is tall. They have long, slender antennae and two pairs of wings that are held flat over their bodies.

Groundlings are unique among the three insects discussed in this essay in that they are not predators. Instead, they feed on algae and other aquatic plants. They are also one of the few insects that are active during the winter months, with many species hatching in the fall and living through the cold winter months. Groundlings are an essential part of the ecosystem, and their presence is an indicator of a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.

Damselflies

In contrast to dragonflies, damselflies are much smaller in size, with most species measuring between one and two inches in length. Their wings are also narrower and more delicate than those of dragonflies. Damselflies are typically less brightly coloured than dragonflies, with many species having slender, elongated bodies. These insects are active during the day and are often found near bodies of water, such as rivers, ponds, and streams.

One of the most noticeable differences between dragonflies and damselflies is their flight pattern. While dragonflies are known for their fast and agile flight, damselflies have a more delicate and fluttery flight. They are also not as strong as dragonflies and are often blown around by the wind. Like dragonflies, damselflies are predators and feed on other insects. They are particularly fond of small flies, mosquitoes, and other insects that live near the water.

Antlions

Antlions, on the other hand, look quite similar to damselflies. The main difference is their habits: antlions are nocturnal and damselflies are diurnal (active during the daytime). So if you see one fluttering around at night, it will most likely be an antlion. They belong to the Order Neuroptera, the net-winged insects. The easiest way to identify antlions is by their antennae, which are very long, longer than their heads, and thick and bushy in appearance. Unlike damselflies, which have very small, thin antennae that are often hard to see.

Adult Antlion

In conclusion, while dragonflies, damselflies, and groundlings may appear similar at first glance, there are significant differences between these insects. Dragonflies are large and robust, with a distinctive appearance and swift, agile flight. Damselflies are smaller and more delicate, with a fluttery flight pattern and a slender, elongated body. Groundlings, on the other hand, are wider than they are tall, with flattened bodies and unique feeding habits. Antlions are flying around at night with long antennae. Each of these insects plays an important role in the ecosystem, and their presence is a testament to the rich biodiversity found at Londolozi Game Reserve.