Observation: Photuris frontalis
Primary Observer:
Jonathan Shirley
Event Date:
2026-06-16
Status:
Verified
Survey
Site Name:
Sloan’s Crossing Pond
Province/State:
Kentucky
Event Date:
2026-06-16
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
21:05
End Time:
23:15
Number of Observers:
1
Primary Observer:
Jonathan Shirley
Additional Observers:
NA
target_species_genus:
photuris
target_species_species:
frontalis
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
50-100
Habitat Type:
Open Freshwater Wetland - Wetland Bog, fen, freshwater marsh
Habitat Type Notes:
"Beaver" pond, though it appears beavers are no longer present
Elevation (meters):
254
Area Searched (hectares):
1.5
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): No
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No
Artificial Light Notes:
Occasionally, the headlights of passing cars can be seen through the trees but it is unobtrusive
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
50+
genus:
photuris
Species:
frontalis
Observation Notes:
9-11mm, synchronizing in waves
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
20:44
Last Flash Time:
11:10
First Flash Temp (F):
71
Last Flash Temp (F):
62
Flashes in Pattern:
>4
Flash Color:
Green
Flash Pattern Period:
>15sec
Flash Duration:
~.2 sec
Flash Interval:
~.75sec
Male Height Zone:
Moderate (3-8 ft), High (over 8 ft)
Flash Location:
Among the brush and understory
Male Flash Behavior:
Quick, bright flashes that seem random before syncing up for about 15-20 seconds before fading out again
Female Flash Behavior:
None observed
