Dragonflies in Colorado: identification guide and where to start looking
Dragonflies are common across Colorado, especially near water. To start identifying them, look for large eyes, four long wings, and a slender abdomen. Most species you will see are from late May through September. Focus on the eastern plains and Front Range ponds for the widest variety.
Dragonflies are common across Colorado, especially near water. To start identifying them, look for large eyes, four long wings, and a slender abdomen. Most species you will see are from late May through September. Focus on the eastern plains and Front Range ponds for the widest variety.
1. What are the most common dragonflies in Colorado?
The Common Green Darner (*Anax junius*) is a frequent sight, recognizable by its bright green thorax and blue abdomen. The Twelve-spotted Skimmer and the Widow Skimmer are also common. Look for clear wing bands and body colors: green, blue, or black-and-yellow. Check out the/animals/dragonflypage for more ID details.
In Colorado, dragonflies sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
2. How to tell Colorado dragonflies apart from lookalikes?
Damselflies are the main lookalike. They hold their wings closed above the body when resting, while dragonflies keep theirs open and flat. Damselflies are also smaller and thinner. Another key difference: dragonfly eyes touch at the top of the head; damselfly eyes are separated. For side-by-side comparisons, see our/animals/dragonflyguide.
Most misses happen when people arrive at the wrong hour or expect nonstop activity. Build around where in the state people usually notice them first, keep one backup area in mind, and use theanimal facts pageplustour planning ideasto compare what a realistic outing looks like in Colorado. If movement slows, stay longer at one promising spot, listen for calls or watch for edge movement, and reset around weather, light, water, or feeding changes instead of jumping to a totally new area too early.
3. Where in Colorado do dragonflies appear first?
Most sightings occur along the Front Range urban ponds and lakes, especially in places like Chatfield State Park and Barr Lake. The eastern plains are prime territory, with Pawnee National Grassland offering reliable views. In the mountains, dragonflies are less common but can be found around beaver ponds. For general Colorado wildlife tips, visit/wildlife/colorado.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. When is dragonfly season in Colorado?
The window runs from late May through September, with peak activity in July and August. Warm afternoons after a rain are best for spotting. Dawn and dusk are less productive because dragonflies are cold-blooded and need sun to be active. Plan your outings for midday to early afternoon for the highest odds. More timing details are on our/wildlife/coloradopage.
5. Where should you start your dragonfly search in Colorado?
Your best bet is any still water body below 8,000 feet. Use online resources like state park maps to find accessible ponds. The travel widget below can help you find nearby lakes and weather conditions.
6. Dragonfly stickers and shirts for your next outing
If you want to keep a record of sightings or show off your interest, check out these products from Easy Street Markets. They make good references and gifts.
### Colorful Dragonfly Stickers, Insect Decals, Planner Decorations
These stickers are perfect for labeling field journals or decorating gear. They show realistic dragonfly colors.Check Price and Availability
### Dragonfly T-Shirt
A simple dragonfly print on a comfortable tee, great for wearing while you are out in the field.Check Price and Availability
### 3dRose Common Green Darner on Water Primrose Mug
This mug features a detailed image of a Common Green Darner resting on a flower, a species you will likely see in Colorado.Check Price and Availability
Browse more dragonfly items in our/stickersand t-shirt collections.
7. Frequently asked questions about dragonflies in Colorado
**Are dragonflies dangerous?** No, they do not sting or bite people. They are beneficial predators of mosquitoes.
**Can you find dragonflies in the mountains?** Yes, but they are less common. Look around beaver ponds and alpine lakes above treeline only during summer.
**What is the largest dragonfly in Colorado?** The Common Green Darner can reach 3 inches in length. The Giant Darner is also present but rarer.
**How long do dragonflies live?** Adults live a few months at most. Nymphs can live one to two years underwater.
**Do dragonflies migrate?** Some species, like the Common Green Darner, migrate south in fall. You may see large groups in late August.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.