Observation: Photuris pensylvanica
Primary Observer:
Lisa Lunny
Event Date:
2025-06-26
Status:
Unreviewed
Survey
Site Name:
Our backyard
Province/State:
Pennsylvania
Event Date:
2025-06-26
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
20:12
End Time:
21:20
Number of Observers:
2
Primary Observer:
Lisa Lunny
Additional Observers:
Kurt Lunny
Target Species Genus:
Photuris
Target Species Species:
pensylvanica
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Developed - Sub/urban areas; parks/gardens
Habitat Type Notes:
Elevation (meters):
181
Area Searched (hectares):
Artificial Light Sources
Vehicles: No
Street Lights: No
Buildings: No
Street Lights: No
Buildings: No
Artificial Light Types
Sky Glow (diffuse illumination in the sky): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No
Artificial Light Notes:
Observation
Observation Type:
Flashing
Number Observed:
50+
Genus:
Photuris
Species:
pensylvanica
Observation Notes:
This was a spectacular event, usually we have hundreds in our yard; tonight there were 1000's! There were at least 30 fireflies in a 2"×2" space. Looking down the yard it was like a swarm of them.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
20:13
Last Flash Time:
21:19
First Flash Temp (F):
82
Last Flash Temp (F):
80
Flashes in Pattern:
1
Flash Color:
Yellow
Flash Pattern Period:
?
Flash Duration:
1
Flash Interval:
7-8
Male Height Zone:
Low (0-3 ft), Moderate (3-8 ft), High (over 8 ft)
Flash Location:
Ground level to 40+ feet
