They are general feeders that primarily attack flies, bees, wasps, and moths. Many species prey heavily on adult mosquitoes. Several species of dragonflies can be found in and around cotton fields and many of the larger species have been observed capturing budworm and bollworm moths as well as other types of moths. It's difficult to determine the impact of dragonfly predation on pest caterpillar populations. Every female moth that is captured before having a chance to lay eggs represents several hundred fewer eggs that will be deposited in the field, and these large dragonfly species can sometimes occur in high numbers.
Immature dragonflies are aquatic and are also predatory.
Dragonfly nymphs have an unusual hinged lower jaw that can be thrust forward some distance to capture prey. Mosquito larvae and pupae are favored prey as well as other aquatic insects. Damselflies are slimmer and more delicate than dragonflies and carry their wings folded vertically over their body. Several species of adult damsel flies occur in cotton, ranging in color from gray to electric blue. Damselflies are too small to tackle a large moth, but if you observe them closely you may see one feeding on aphids or whiteflies.