True Dragonflies

The Anisoptera (true dragonflies) are small to large insects with hindwings that are greatly widened at the base. When at rest, the wings are spread out horizontally. The chasers (Libellulidae) press their wings forwards and downwards, so that they point diagonally forwards. The large eyes are set close together, except in the case of the clubtails (Gomphidae), where they are widely spaced. The shape of the abdomen varies greatly. For example, in the hawkers (Aeshnidae), the abdomen is long and cylindrical, whereas in the chasers, it is often short and stout.