These are Red Goldenrod Aphids (Uroleucon nigrotuberculatum). They only live on goldenrod apparently and don’t harm the plant. They provide food for ladybirds and other insects so I’m leaving them where I found them just on the edge of the woods by the bridge where they seemed to be dancing in unison on the leaves.
Close to the goldenrod is a clump or two of this sedge (Carex greyi). It’s got these fantastic spiky starburst flowers and semi-evergreen leaves. It loves swamps and it’s deer resistant. A necessity for plants native to this neck of the woods.
witches whiskers 