Meganeura

Meganeura had a wingspan of about 65 to 75 centimetres (2.1 to 2.5 feet) and a body length up to 43 centimetres (1.4 feet). It was one of the largest flying insects ever.14

No, it could not make sudden direction changes like modern dragonflies. It was a 'hawker' that patrolled open areas and above treetops, flying steadily rather than zigzagging.12

Meganeura was a predator that ate other insects. It used large spines on its legs to trap prey in mid-air, like a flying trap.14

No, Meganeura is not a dinosaur. It was a giant dragonfly-like insect that lived about 300 million years ago, long before dinosaurs evolved.1

Meganeura lived during the Late Carboniferous period, about 300 million years ago.1

Scientists think the high oxygen levels in the Carboniferous air may have helped it grow so large, but they are not sure. Another idea is that there were no big flying predators back then.1

Yes, it had huge compound eyes that met along the top of its head, giving it excellent vision to spot prey against the sky.12

The first Meganeura fossil was found in a coal mine in Commentry, France, in 1880.1

Estimates vary a lot, from about 18 grams (0.04 pounds) up to 100 to 150 grams (0.22 to 0.33 pounds). Scientists are not sure of the exact weight.1

No, Meganeura was a flying insect that lived near water but did not swim. It probably perched on plants and patrolled open areas for prey.12