immature dragon fly, dragon flies

Dragonflies are capable of hovering followed by rapid acceleration. Some nymphs even hunt on land, an aptitude which could easily have been more common in ancient times when terrestrial predators were clumsier. Giant dragonflies can glide 20 meters at 10 degrees and a velocity of 74 cm per second which is similar to some birds . They capture their prey by clasping them in legs studded with spikes. Prey can not escape by diving away because dragonflies always attack from below.