How to Attract Dragonflies and Damselflies to Eat Mosquitoes
If you have a mosquito problem in your yard, dragonflies may be the solution. They eat hundreds of mosquitoes a day.
Reviewed by Sylvia Duax
Mosquitoes can quickly spoil an outdoor summer evening, but attracting dragonflies and damselflies to your yard can help keep them in check, as these insects feast on mosquitoes. While DIY solutions like bug sprays and essential oils may provide temporary relief , mosquitoes often relocate to another part of the yard. Learning to invite dragonflies with a few easy steps can naturally reduce the mosquito population around your home.
About Dragonflies and Damselflies
Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the insect family Odonata. Though they look similar, damselflies are smaller and fly more slowly than dragonflies. Damselflies can fold their wings together when resting, unlike dragonflies, which always have their wings outstretched like a biplane.
These insects are carnivorous and consume many small insects. They can eat over 100 mosquitoes daily, and adult dragonflies also feed on midges, gnats
, and other small creatures. By providing the right environment, you can encourage dragonflies and damselflies to settle in your backyard, where they'll help control the mosquito population.
Steps to Attract Dragonflies to Your Yard
1. Add a Water Feature to Your Yard
Dragonflies and damselflies spend most of their lives in or around water. They lay their eggs in water and perch on nearby plants. Some species prefer standing water, while others like flowing water. Research which species are common in your area to decide the best water feature for your yard. Adding a bubbler or fountain can help keep excess mosquitoes away.
Tips
If you add a bird bath change the water every few days to prevent mosquito larvae from thriving and to attract dragonflies. Clean it with a diluted vinegar solution to protect dragonflies and other wildlife.
Ensure your water feature is at least 2 feet deep to welcome dragonflies and damselflies. Since mosquito larvae develop better in shallow water, a deeper pond helps reduce mosquitoes in your yard.
Related: Make This Mini Garden Pond
2. Plant Vegetation Near a Water Source
Dragonflies and damselflies need various plants in or near water to thrive. Submerged vegetation protects eggs and nymphs, while partially submerged plants help nymphs transition into adults. Floating plants offer perches for adults to rest and lay eggs. Vegetation at the water's edge , along with nearby trees and shrubs, provides perches, roosting sites, and shelter.
3. Include Pollinator Plants in Your Landscape
A water source provides dragonflies with mosquitoes and gnats, but they also prey on moths, butterflies, and bees. Besides aquatic plants , add pollinator plants to attract more prey for dragonflies and damselflies. Suitable pondside plants include water lilies , buttercups, and irises .
By inviting dragonflies and damselflies into your garden, you benefit from their mosquito-based diet. If you have or plan to build a pond or bog, adding plants that attract these insects will offer them a safe haven.
Related: 3 Low-Maintenance Pollinator Garden Ideas
Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens
