The short answer: An average dragonfly weighs only about 0.5 grams (0.02 oz). Larger species are a little heavier, but all are very light.
Dragonfly weight by type
Weight differs by species and size, though dragonflies are always light. Here are typical values.
| Type (example) | Typical weight |
|---|---|
| Small damselfly | About 0.05 to 0.1 g (under 0.005 oz) |
| Average dragonfly | About 0.3 to 0.5 g (0.01 to 0.02 oz) |
| Large hawker / darner | About 0.7 to 1 g (0.025 to 0.035 oz) |
| Largest species | Up to roughly 1.5 g (0.05 oz) |
What affects dragonfly weight
- Species. Body and wing size drive most of the difference.
- Sex. Females carrying eggs can be slightly heavier.
- Feeding state. A recently fed dragonfly weighs marginally more.
- Hydration. Moisture content affects measured mass.
- Age. Newly emerged adults weigh a bit more before drying.
How dragonfly weight compares
A dragonfly weighs roughly the same as half a small paperclip, light enough for swift, precise flight.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dragonfly weigh?
An average dragonfly weighs about 0.5 grams, with larger species reaching around 1 gram.
Are dragonflies strong fliers despite being light?
Yes, their light bodies and powerful wings make them among the fastest and most agile insects.
What is the heaviest dragonfly?
Large hawker and darner species are among the heaviest living dragonflies, around 1 gram.
