Resting wings offer a clue
Dragonflies and damselflies do not rest in the same way.
Includes an activity to try →Explore: Wings, water and food →Read here and view sources
The Tagis guide describes damselflies with two similar pairs of wings, usually held closed or slightly apart vertically when perched. Dragonflies keep theirs open horizontally. This is an initial observation clue, not a species identification. Adult dragonflies can move away from watercourses thanks to their flying ability.
Both groups belong to the order Odonata. The guide highlights compound eyes, short antennae and jaws used to capture other animals. Their prey includes flies and mosquitoes: these wings are part of a predator story, not just one of colours.
The connection with water also changes with life stage. Dragonflies need water to complete their cycle, but adults can hunt in sunny clearings far from the river where they began life. Seeing an adult above a path does not locate its breeding point. Compare wing position, behaviour and habitat without turning one clue into an identification.
Source and context
Tagis — Insects in Order, Odonata, dragonflies, dragonflies and friganiums (pp. 39–43 and 74)
Accessed: . Editorial summary; the date of consultation is not the date of the facts.