The larva shown here is approximately 3/4 inch in length. It is dark brown with sand and debris cemented to its body for camouflage. The prominent black pincers are used for capturing prey. Owlfly larvae resemble ant-lion larvae, but have a “finger-like” appendage” that protrudes from the side of each abdominal segment. This larva was identified by a volunteer expert from the BugGuide website.The adult Owlflies are 1 1/2 to 2 inches in length including wings and antennae. They resemble dragonflies with their large wings and long slender abdomens, however, they have long clubbed antennae.
Owlfies are considered to be common in this area. They are not often seen because they fly for just a short period at dusk. The adults shown here were attracted to artificial lights at Neale Woods in early July 2013. The larva shown here was photographed at Neale Woods in late summer. They can be seen lying on the ground waiting for prey.
The adults prey on insects and are crepusucular with some flying only 30 minutes before dark. Many eggs are laid in a column on twigs (click here to see eggs). Pupation occurs in a silk cocoon in leaf litter.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Babs Padelford.