(Aeshnidae) Including 50 genera and slightly less than 450 species, it is a small family spread in all major parts of the world. Species of this family have big compound helmet-shaped eyes that help them significantly in communication. Those dragonflies are big. Adults can fly fast for long distances and can also fly backward or in circles. Larvae live in water where they complete their life cycle. Adults patrol above the water or open environments that are protected from the wind. Larvae and adult are very active predators feeding on different preys. Adults consume insects, while larvae sometimes attack small vertebrates.
