| Scientific name | Anax junius |
|---|---|
| Group | Other Insects |
| Size | 68–80 mm (up to about 3.1 in) |
| Colors | Green and Blue |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Near water and Lawn or grass |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The common green darner is a large member of the other insects group. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups. Check for these three features:
- Green thorax with a bull's-eye mark on the face
- Blue (male) or purplish-brown (female) abdomen
- Wings held flat out to the sides at rest
About this bug
A large dragonfly with a bright green thorax and, in males, a blue abdomen. It patrols ponds and fields catching mosquitoes and other flying insects.
You'll usually find common green darners near water and in lawns and grass. They are most active in spring, summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Dragonflies can't sting and almost never bite people.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see common green darners
Common Green Darners are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: near water and lawn or grass.
About other insects
The common green darner is one of the other insects. This group covers insects from several orders, including crickets, grasshoppers, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies, lacewings and planthoppers. Their life cycles vary widely: fleas and lacewings go through complete metamorphosis, while crickets, grasshoppers, mantises and lice grow gradually through nymph stages.
Check the specific profile for timing, because each of these insects has its own season and habits.
Should you get rid of it?
No control is needed. Common Green Darners are not pests, and many help by eating other insects or pollinating plants. If one is indoors, move it outside with a cup and a sheet of paper.
Frequently asked questions
What does a common green darner look like?
Green thorax with a bull's-eye mark on the face. Adults measure 68–80 mm (up to about 3.1 in).
Does the common green darner bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Dragonflies can't sting and almost never bite people.
Where do common green darners live?
Common Green Darners live near water and in lawns and grass.
When are common green darners most active?
Mostly in spring, summer and fall.