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Larval ID
 Now
for the hard part, identifying your larvae or exuviae. If you're up for a
challenge, go for it!
Trying to identify larvae can be difficult even for the experienced odonotologist.
For the beginner this might feel like an almost impossible task, but with a little
patience, time and a good key, you will be able to do it. Dragonflies of North
America by Westfall & May has a key to larvae that works equally well with exuviae.
There are also some web sites that include information on larval ID.
You will need a hand held lens, preferably 10x or better; if not available,
your binoculars reversed will work almost as well. Most larvae can be keyed
out to determine species. Identification is based upon general appearance
and physical characteristics. See our larval family guide
to get started.
Collecting exuviae is a common practice by entomologists. Studies conducted
on exuviae can provide valuable information to scientists on the presence of larvae
populations and past breeding populations at a particular habitat or location.
After identification, if you plan on keeping your exuviae you may do so by storing
them in a vial, labeled with the species name, date, location and habitat where
collected.
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