While these beautiful and delicate looking insects are harmless to humans, they are very capable predators that always seem to be hungry. And since they tend to feed on other species of insects that are considered garden pests, they are a welcome sight for gardeners. The larvae are called “aphid lions” which sometimes pile the carcasses of their victims on their backs and/or cover themselves with other debris as camouflage.
Many species of this genus can be recognized by their facial and body markings. We are not 100% sure but we believe this is Chrysopa coloradensis. Notice the black loop under the base of each antennae and the broad black strip on the cheeks (ganae).
Photo by: Glenn Marangelo on 6/5/21 in Missoula, MT