Observation: Pyractomena dispersa
Primary Observer:
Kevin Burls
Event Date:
2023-07-10
Status:
Verified
Survey
Site Name:
Spring Valley State Park
Province/State:
Nevada
Event Date:
2023-07-10
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
20:24
End Time:
23:10
Number of Observers:
2
Primary Observer:
Kevin Burls
Additional Observers:
Cynthia Scholl
target_species_genus:
pyractomena
target_species_species:
dispersa
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Grassland/Meadow - Meadow, open, grasses dominant
Habitat Type Notes:
Meadow fed by numerous springs, many semi-riparian corridors pass throughout the meadow.
Elevation (meters):
1785
Area Searched (hectares):
15
Artificial Light Sources
Vehicles: Yes
Street Lights: No
Buildings: No
Street Lights: No
Buildings: No
Artificial Light Types
Sky Glow (diffuse illumination in the sky): No
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Artificial Light Notes:
Occasional vehicles to/from camp and along road, which is also access for several ranches.
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
50+
genus:
pyractomena
Species:
dispersa
Observation Notes:
More fireflies than at other locations surveyed, appeared to be a large and active population.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
20:43
Last Flash Time:
23:08
First Flash Temp (F):
71
Last Flash Temp (F):
57
Flashes in Pattern:
4
Flash Color:
Yellow
Flash Pattern Period:
4-6
Flash Duration:
0.1
Flash Interval:
0.2
Male Height Zone:
Low (0-3 ft), Moderate (3-8 ft)
Flash Location:
Most males appeared to flash in flight, usually at around head height but with some variation. Some were definitely flashing from the ground. Females likely flashing from ground.
Male Flash Behavior:
4 flashes, much less variation in pattern compared to other locations.
Female Flash Behavior:
Unable to distinguish.
