Observation: Photuris
Primary Observer:
Anna Walker
Event Date:
2026-06-02
Status:
Unreviewed
Survey
Site Name:
Riverbend Ponds Natural Area
Province/State:
Colorado
Event Date:
2026-06-02
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
21:42
End Time:
22:10
Number of Observers:
5
Primary Observer:
Anna Walker
Additional Observers:
Trevor Graff, Nate Folkner, Erica Clyde, Ben Clyde
target_species_genus:
photuris
target_species_species:
missouriensis
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Open Freshwater Wetland - Wetland Bog, fen, freshwater marsh
Habitat Type Notes:
Wetland area contains cattalis and other marsh vegetation. Areas surrounding wetland are shrub scrub.
Elevation (meters):
1493
Area Searched (hectares):
0.825
Artificial Light Sources
Vehicles: No
Street Lights: Yes
Buildings: Yes
Street Lights: Yes
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:
Light pollution is minimal in this part of the firefly habitat. Areas closer to Prospect Road, where past survey has taken place, see more light trespass from street lights and vehicle traffic.
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
11-50
genus:
photuris
Species:
unknown
Observation Notes:
Very early in the season. Winter was very warm and plant and animal phenology is advance for many species this year. This is likely an undescribed species. Fireflies were already flashing upon arrival to the site at 21:42, and were continuing to flash, though less enthusiastically, when survey was ended at 22:10.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
21:42
Last Flash Time:
22:10
First Flash Temp (F):
74
Last Flash Temp (F):
63
Flashes in Pattern:
1
Flash Color:
Green
Flash Pattern Period:
2.5
Flash Duration:
.5
Flash Interval:
2
Male Height Zone:
Low (0-3 ft), Moderate (3-8 ft)
Flash Location:
Upon arrival, flashes were from the vegetation only. Around 10 pm, which happens to be closer to true dark, a couple individuals started flying.
Male Flash Behavior:
Males emit single flashes every couple of seconds while they fly in a straight line, about 5-10 feet above marshy vegetation.
Female Flash Behavior:
Unsure is any were observed.
