General: The Dragonflies and Damselflies (Order Odonata) are two diverse groups of flying creatures in the desert and mountains around Las Vegas. There are 2 extant suborders, and several families in North America.

The odonates are generally recognized by their long, thin body; long, thin wings, and habit of flying rapidly and sweeping over water and damp vegetation.

These creatures are predators on other insects, consuming and reducing the population of harmful insects. As such, they are valued guests in gardens and farm fields.