While walking through this field one morning, I came across a creature that I’ve never seen before. In fact, I didn’t know that such a thing existed. Owlflies somewhat resemble dragonflies, but have clubbed antennae and fold their wings over their backs. Like dragonflies, these insects are predatory both as larva and adults.
Adult Owlflies are aerial hunters that feed on other insects. When disturbed, some types will release a strong, musk-like chemical to deter enemies. They mimic a twig in the daytime to avoid being eaten by predators.
Owlflies get their name from their large eyes which in many species, including this one, the eye is actually divided into two by a groove. They tend to be crepuscular; that is, they’re active during the twilight hours of sunrise and sunset. A bit like an owl, actually.
Owlflies are members of a small order of insects known as the Neuroptera. The name refers to the complex parttern of the wing veins, which resembles a network of nerves.
