Forest darner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Forest darner |
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The Austroaeschna pulchra is a type of large dragonfly often called the forest darner. It belongs to the family Telephlebiidae. These amazing insects live near streams and rivers in eastern Australia, from the area around Brisbane all the way down to Victoria.
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Meet the Forest Darner
Forest darners are beautiful dragonflies. The males are usually brown or black with bright yellow, green, or blue markings. Females are brown with yellow markings. They look quite similar to another type of dragonfly called the Carnarvon darner, which is Austroaeschna muelleri.
Where Do They Live?
Forest darners love places with fresh water. You can find them flying near clear streams and rivers, especially in forested areas. They need these watery homes because that's where their young, called nymphs, live and grow.
What Do Darners Eat?
Like all dragonflies, forest darners are skilled hunters. They catch other insects in the air, like mosquitoes and flies, using their strong legs. They are very important for keeping insect populations balanced in their habitats.
Life Cycle of a Dragonfly
Dragonflies have an interesting life cycle. It starts when the female lays eggs in or near water. These eggs hatch into tiny creatures called nymphs. Dragonfly nymphs live underwater for months, or even years, eating small aquatic insects. When they are ready, they crawl out of the water, shed their skin one last time, and transform into the beautiful flying adult dragonflies we see.
Why Are They Called "Darners"?
The name "darner" comes from their long, needle-like bodies, which some people thought looked like darning needles. They are also known for their powerful and swift flight, darting quickly through the air.
Gallery
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Close-up of a female forest darner's wings.
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Close-up of a male forest darner's wings.
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