Dragonflies: A Complete Insect Life Cycle

Part of New Dimension Media's BIG World of Insects, Spiders & Bugs Series, this 11th volume chronicles the life cycle of the dragonfly, beginning with their three-year stint as nymphs (baby insects) that crawl around ponds eating tadpoles, after which these “aquatic hunters” eventually migrate to the tops of plants to metamorphose into winged adults. Although the dragonfly is vulnerable during the change—many do not survive—a successful emergence results in the splitting of the nymph's back to make way for its maiden flight and few remaining weeks of life. Touching on the varieties of species (and colors and designs), incredible flying skills (which aircraft manufacturers study—the dragonfly's body weight is 60% flight muscles), mating and egg-laying habits, and more, this profile of the dragonfly features solid narration, detailed close-up footage, and relevant vocabulary. Other titles in the 26-volume series include: Ant Lions & Ants: Predators & Prey, Bees: One Big Family, Insect Adaptations for Water, and Sand & Spider Wasps. Recommended. Aud: I, J, P. (J. Williams-Wood)