Update, it's a separate fly with wings normally folded up. See my later answer (satguru, moderator).
Response last updated by satguru on Jul 02 2021.
Jun 21 2002, 4:15 AM
Siskin
Answer has 7 votes
Siskin
Answer has 7 votes.
I have never heard of a female dragonfly having any particular name. The damselfly is a totally different species from the dragonfly. Damselflies are small relatives os damselflies and feed on smaller insects. Their eyes do not cover their heads, and they rest with their wings above their bodies, rather like butterflies, while dragonflies rest with their wings straight out beside the body. There are 27 species of dragonfly and 17 species of damselfly in the British Isles.
AA Book of the British Countryside.
Jun 21 2002, 2:51 PM
Norwich
Answer has 4 votes
Norwich
Answer has 4 votes.
I thought that when I found this particular reference. Certainly in Britain a damselfly is different from a dragonfly, but I wasn't sure if this was the case on the other side of the pond. If the website information I have provided is inaccurate, please accept my humble apologies, though it was only 6.00am when I posted that answer, and I had only been awake a few minutes! Next time I will research the question more thoroughly, instead of just briefly clicking through Google and posting the first thing I come across which looks like a good answer! Now, I'm going back to bed!
Jun 21 2002, 4:41 PM
Siskin
Answer has 4 votes
Siskin
Answer has 4 votes.
Norwich - Only just re-read my post. I sound like a head mistress! I really am sorry. You need sleep and I'm suffering from World Cupitis. No more!! Thank Goodness!
Jun 21 2002, 7:20 PM
Norwich
Answer has 4 votes
Norwich
Answer has 4 votes.
No need to apologize, Siskin, but thank you for your kind words! Having re-checked, I agree with you - A dragonfly, regardless of its sex (can I use that word on here, McG?) is still a dragonfly!