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California experiences unusual dragonfly swarms
Residents across California are reporting unusual swarms of dragonflies in parks, ponds, and agricultural areas. Experts suggest the surge in dragonfly numbers was likely driven by unusually warm monsoon storms that moved through the state during the late spring and early summer.
Many of the insects are believed to be wandering gliders, a highly migratory species. These dragonflies can reach speeds of up to 35 mph and utilize air pressure changes to travel long distances.
While the large numbers are notable, they provide a natural benefit to local agriculture. Farmers have noted that the dragonflies act as effective pest control by consuming aphids, whiteflies, and fruit flies that can damage crops.
Entities
California · Fresno County · Joe Del Bosque · Kathy Biggs · Lake Merritt · Oakland
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Warm monsoon storms in late spring and early summer likely caused the surge in dragonfly numbers. mymotherlode.com · srnnews.com · www.winnipegfreepress.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Dragonflies act as pest control by eating aphids, whiteflies, and fruit flies. mymotherlode.com · srnnews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Dragonflies can fly at speeds of up to 35 mph (56 kph). mymotherlode.com · srnnews.com · www.winnipegfreepress.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Many of the dragonflies are likely wandering gliders, which are highly migratory insects. mymotherlode.com · srnnews.com · www.winnipegfreepress.com