Imagine my delight when I found these tiny dragons on my Helborus hybrid. They are of the order Coleoptera, and the larvae of Ladybeetles, or Ladybugs, scientifically known as Hippodamia convergens. The larvae are more voracious aphid slayers than the adult. If you find these Dragons in your yard, celebrate.
I have heard several Master Gardener's note that there seems to be an abundance of Ladybugs this year. That must have meant that their larvae were in abundance, also. I have since seen more of the little “dragons” as well as many adults. I am sure hoping that means it is a bad year for aphids.