Owlflies

Scientific name:
(Neuroptera: Ascalaphidae) few species

Facts: Owlflies are rather large insects and resemble dragonflies or damselflies. The long clubbed antennae are key characters that separate this group from Odonata. The wing venation is more like lacewings than dragonflies.

The larvae do not dig pits like antlions but lie on the surface of the ground and wait for prey to move past.

Photo credit: J. A. Jackman