Dragonflies begin their lives in the water as eggs laid directly onto the water's surface or inserted into the vegetation growing close to the shore. It takes about a month for the eggs to hatch, birthing the larvae (also called nymphs) that will eventually become the familiar flying predators in their adult stage. After a series of molts, which can take place over months or years depending on the species, the nymph leaves the water and finds a suitable place to emerge, usually a strong stalk of vegetation, tree trunk, rock, or dock support.

First the larval shell at the back of the head cracks open, allowing the dragonfly's head to emerge. The split enlarges down the back, and the head, compressed wings, legs and part of the abdomen are forced out. After another rest, the dragonfly arches backwards and hangs upside down, its emergence only half-complete. During this time, the legs harden, and the dragonfly uses them to grab the larval case in order to pull its abdomen free. Once it has been fully freed from its shell, the abdomen extends to its full length, a fluid called hemolymph (similar to blood) begins to circulate throughout the body and wings, and the wings unfurl and straighten out. The dragonfly rests for at least an hour, letting the wings dry before it flies for the first time.

Below are images of this amazing process.