The most magical event occurred at the end of July along Coal Creek in Lafayette.
Ebony jewelwings hatched. This aptly named damselfly that is chiefly an eastern species, rarely seen in Colorado, likes to perch on low shrubbery along shaded streams.
When we scanned the shoreline of Coal Creek near the Public Road Trailhead, we quickly spotted an ebony-black damselfly with a metallic turquoise body. Then one with an emerald body. Then another. And another. This stretch of sun-dappled creek is worth investigating even if you miss the jewelwings that have lifespans of only 15 to 17 days. Also look for American rubyspot damselflies, golden taxiles skippers, monarch and viceroy butterflies as well as blue jays, red-tailed hawks, and goldfinches.
If you go, bring a camera. Both damselflies and dragonflies tend to fly out after small insect prey and then return to the same spot, so there’s ample opportunity for photography. Courtship and breeding (they make a heart-shaped “wheel” during mating) peak in the afternoon so that’s a good time to go.
Ann Cooper, co-author with Steve Jones of Dragonflies of the Colorado Front Range, saw them at this spot a couple of years ago so they seem to be thriving in the vicinity. Naturalist Scott Severs, who alerted us to their presence, thinks this population may continue in future years if the water and habitat remain unchanged.
Coal Creek Trail stretches for 14 miles between Superior and Erie, so hiking (or bicycling) is practically open-ended. The section of Coal Creek Trail just east of our damselfly hotspot is unshaded and hot. We prefer the shady stretch heading west or the section near Flagg Park where Scott photographed large numbers of the ebony jewelwings.
To reach the Public Road Trailhead take South Boulder Road to Lafayette’s South Public Road and turn right. In a few blocks turn right again into a small parking area, south of Old Laramie Trail. To reach Flagg Park, take Baseline Road to Flagg Drive (just south of East County Line Road) and turn right. The park is on the left.
Check You Tube for some amazing jewelwing courtship dances.
Ruth Carol Cushman and Glenn Cushman are the authors of Boulder Hiking Trails, 5th ed. published by Graphic Arts Books.
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August Nature Walk: Ebony Jewelwings dance along Coal Creek trail - The Daily Camera
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