The dragonfly is an ancient and visually stunning insect that has perfected aerial predation. Recognized globally for their iridescent wings, brilliant coloration, and unmatched agility, these creatures often gather in groups. This gathering raises the question of what to call the group, following the tradition of collective animal nouns, or terms of venery.
The Collective Nouns for Dragonflies
The most commonly accepted collective noun for a gathering of dragonflies is a cluster. This term is used because the insects often congregate in a limited area, such as around a body of water or a rich feeding ground. Another frequently cited name is a flight of dragonflies.
More evocative terms have also gained popularity, reflecting the insect’s shimmering appearance and rapid movement. A group is sometimes referred to as a shimmer or a kaleidoscope of dragonflies. These terms highlight how their metallic bodies and transparent wings reflect light in motion. While swarm is a generic term for a large group of insects, the more specific nouns better capture the unique nature of these predators.
Why Dragonflies Form Groups
Dragonflies congregate for specific, biologically driven reasons, mainly revolving around resource availability and reproduction. One spectacular form of grouping is the migratory swarm, where species like the Common Green Darner move en masse. These large-scale movements, involving thousands to millions of insects, typically occur in the late summer and early fall as they travel south toward warmer climates.
These migrations are often multi-generational, meaning the individuals flying south are not the same ones that flew north. Long-distance travelers, such as the Common Green Darner, can cover more than 80 miles in a single day during their southward journey. Another common reason for congregation is the formation of static feeding swarms, where dragonflies exploit localized, abundant prey.
These temporary groups form where smaller insects like midges and gnats are numerous, allowing the dragonflies to hunt efficiently and replenish energy stores. Finally, smaller groups may form around prime breeding habitats. Males patrol and defend territories over water sources, resulting in a congregation attracted to the favorable breeding site.
Key Facts About the Dragonfly
The dragonfly’s success is rooted in its anatomy, beginning with its massive compound eyes. Nearly 80% of the insect’s brain is dedicated to processing visual information, giving it a nearly 360-degree field of vision. Their eyes are efficient, perceiving images at a rate of approximately 200 per second, which is significantly faster than the human eye.
This superior vision is paired with unmatched aerial skill, as dragonflies can move each of their four wings independently. This allows them to fly in six directions, including backward, and to hover with precision. Their hunting prowess is notable, with a success rate reaching up to 97% of the prey they pursue in mid-air.
The life cycle of the dragonfly is split between two environments. The nymph, or naiad, stage is spent entirely underwater and can last from a few months to up to five years in larger species. These aquatic nymphs are predators, using a hinged lower lip called a labium to capture small prey like mosquito larvae, tadpoles, and even small fish. The adult dragonfly, with its exceptional flying ability, typically only survives for a few weeks to a couple of months.