Wild Guide: Owlflies

Wild Guide: Owlflies

Ascalaphidae family

Owlflies look like dragonflies with butterfly heads. Dragonfly shaped and sized, they have long, clubbed antennae and large, bulging eyes. Some rest with their abdomens angled away from the perch, making their bodies look like twigs. There are eight species of owlflies in North America, with two being found in Missouri. They are distinguished by looking at their eyes. Active from dusk to dawn, owlflies are attracted to lights during the summer months.

Did You Know?

The owlfly family name, Ascalaphidae, comes from Greek mythology. In addition, some species of adult owlflies glue sand or other debris to their back for camouflage.