Why are large swarms of dragonflies being spotted around Milwaukee?

MILWAUKEE — If you happen to’ve been out and about just lately having fun with these previous few days of summer time, you’ll have seen an uptick in dragonflies flying round.

“A whole lot of what individuals are seeing currently is these large swarms of actually large dragonflies. Simply this whole week they have been protecting everybody’s garden, my mum or dad’s entrance yard, like in every single place,” mentioned Maggie ​Steinhauer, the analysis and neighborhood science coordinator for the City Ecology Middle.

Steinhauer says the swarm of dragonflies you see are seemingly inexperienced darners. And it is utterly regular to see them this time of 12 months.

“They’re beginning to migrate south for the winter,” mentioned Steinhauer. “When they’re in these giant plenty they’re feeding. So that is feeding conduct. They’re consuming mosquitoes, midges, and different pest bugs.”

Steinhauer says some of these dragonflies often develop to about 3 to 4 inches in size. However there is not any have to panic once you see them! They’re utterly innocent to people.

“They do not chunk us, and so they bodily can’t sting. They lay eggs in or close to water in order that’s why often you may see dragonflies close to a river, lake, or pond, however they can even journey away from the water for feeding,” mentioned Steinhauer.

So what must you do should you see a swarm of dragonflies coming towards you?

“Undoubtedly do not attempt to kill them. Get pleasure from them.​ ​Additionally, I might advocate binoculars and doubtlessly a internet should you’re excited by catching them and figuring out the species.”

Steinhauer provides that the dragonflies will seemingly dwindle down round October as they head south for the winter. However don’t fret… they’re going to be again.

“They’re finishing their life cycle down south after which these younger will come again up north come subsequent spring.”

Report a typo or error // Submit a information tip