[1] The species' range encompasses only about 290 square kilometres (110 sq mi) in the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado.

[2] Despite its small range, the species is relatively secure because its entire habitat is within a protected national park.

[3][4] The adults are about 13 millimetres (0.51 in) long and are readily distinguished by the violin-shaped marking on their backs and their iridescent green-blue heads.

[1] The insects live for approximately 2.5 years, with mating occurring in late May and larvae appearing the next month.

[2] The larval stage lasts a little more than a year, with adults emerging the next July.