Observation: Photuris pensylvanica
Primary Observer:
James Shelton
Event Date:
2026-06-17
Status:
Unreviewed
Survey
Site Name:
Undisclosed
Province/State:
Virginia
Event Date:
2026-06-17
Time of Day:
Day-Time
Start Time:
21:10
End Time:
21:25
Number of Observers:
1
Primary Observer:
James Shelton
Additional Observers:
target_species_genus:
photuris
target_species_species:
pensylvanica
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Riparian - Areas Along lake or stream
Habitat Type Notes:
Occasionally mowed with a push mower but not this year. Shrubs and fringed tree next to mature forest.
Elevation (meters):
250
Area Searched (hectares):
0.1
Artificial Light Sources
Vehicles: No
Street Lights: No
Buildings: Yes
Street Lights: No
Buildings: Yes
Artificial Light Types
Sky Glow (diffuse illumination in the sky): No
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): Yes
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): Yes
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No
Artificial Light Notes:
House lights dark. Light for nearby houses
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
2-10
genus:
photuris
Species:
pensylvanica
Observation Notes:
Didn’t catch.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
21:14
Last Flash Time:
21:25
First Flash Temp (F):
77
Last Flash Temp (F):
76
Flashes in Pattern:
3
Flash Color:
Green
Flash Pattern Period:
3
Flash Duration:
0.25
Flash Interval:
1
Male Height Zone:
High (over 8 ft)
Flash Location:
Most were very high.
One went in a line right next to me. I did not see that one that well.
Male Flash Behavior:
Three flashes then a dark period.
I had seen the ones that flash every 5.5 seconds yesterday.
Female Flash Behavior:
Didn’t see.
