WWiW-GEP: Lepidoptera & Odonata

Wellness Walks in Wildlife (WWiW) – GEP
July Theme:Lepidoptera & Odonata
Glen Emerald Park (GEP)
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Here's your description updated for July – Lepidoptera & Odonata Month at Glen Emerald Park, while preserving your immersive, reflective style and tying it specifically to the lake ecosystem.

Wellness Walks in Wildlife invites participants to move in rhythm with the group—adjusting our pace as needed—pausing with intention to savor what the landscape reveals. These weekly notice-and-wonder sessions unfold across South DeKalb's interconnected green spaces, where movement and observation meet. Whether the walk leans gentle or more invigorating, each experience is layered with guided stops that deepen awareness of the forest, water, and wildlife—what is visible, and what is quietly set into motion.

In July, our focus turns to Lepidoptera & Odonata Month, celebrating the butterflies, moths, dragonflies, and damselflies that animate Glen Emerald Park throughout the height of summer. Warm temperatures and abundant sunlight bring these winged wonders into full view as they nectar among wildflowers, patrol the lake's shoreline, and glide above the water in search of food, mates, and suitable habitat. Participants will discover how these remarkable insects serve as pollinators, skilled aerial predators, and important indicators of healthy ecosystems while learning to observe their behaviors, field marks, and preferred habitats.

At Glen Emerald Park, the lake serves as the heart of this experience. Dragonflies and damselflies patrol its edges, butterflies gather where flowering plants and open sunlight intersect, and surrounding woodlands provide shelter for countless species completing their life cycles. As we follow the lake loop, participants will explore how water, native vegetation, and forest edges create a mosaic of habitats that support these insects and the many birds, amphibians, and other wildlife that depend upon them. Walks rotate weekly among Constitution Lakes Park, Glen Emerald Park, the Michelle Obama–South River Trail, and the Gresham Park Recreation Center area, highlighting the ecological diversity of this interconnected stewardship cluster.

Walks rotate weekly among Constitution Lakes Park, Glen Emerald Park, the Michelle Obama–South River Trail, and the Gresham Park Recreation Center area, highlighting the ecological diversity of this interconnected stewardship cluster.

Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA)

Glen Emerald Park (GEP)
After parking, walk toward the pavilion and tennis court—the group will be gathered along the cemented path between them.
1479 Bouldercrest Rd, Atlanta, GA 30316

Programs proceed in light weather and are adjusted only when conditions are unsafe. Participants should dress appropriately and bring any personal supports needed for comfort and mobility.

There are no public restrooms available at Glen Emerald Park. Please plan accordingly and come prepared.

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Supportive walking shoes with good tread
• Refillable water bottle
• Binoculars (optional; excellent for observing dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies, and birds)
• Camera or smartphone (optional; great for nature photography and species documentation)

All ages are welcome. Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Approximately 2.5 hours at a relaxed, observant pace with frequent stops for discussion and seasonal exploration. Terrain includes paved paths, natural trails, and areas with uneven ground, exposed roots, and occasional mud.

All South DeKalb Parks Naturalist programs are designed to be welcoming and supportive of participants with varying abilities and mobility levels.

At Glen Emerald Park, the walk begins on a paved path near the pavilion and lake loop, offering relatively stable and accessible footing. As the walk progresses into surrounding woodland areas, participants may encounter uneven terrain, exposed roots, sloped sections near the dam, and soft or muddy ground depending on recent weather.

Participants with mobility concerns may choose to remain along the paved loop and central recreational areas. Those using mobility aids or strollers should be aware that woodland trail conditions vary.

Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To discuss access needs or alternate route options, please contact the program leader at least 48 hours in advance.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, and physical exertion. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

~ Mrs. Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist | DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs
[email protected]
404-927-4227 (Work Cell)