Damselflies belong to the Suborder Zygoptera. There are several different Family groups within this sub order and it can be challenging for the beginning odonata enthusiast to identify individual species. In most cases a close look with a hand lens at the insect “in-hand” will help put a name to the damsel.

In British Columbia, there are 24 different species of damselflies. They are grouped into 3 Families: Calopterygidae (Jewelwings) – 1 species; Lestidae (Spreadwings) – 5 species; and Coenagrionidae (Pond Damsels) – 18 species;

The Pond Damsel family contains 6 genera – Agria (Dancers); Amphiagrion ( Red Damsels); Nehalennia (Sprites); Coenagrion (Eurasian Bluets); Enallagma (American Bluets); and Ischnura (Forktails).