Observation: Photinus pyralis

Observation: Photinus pyralis

Primary Observer:

Ed Chapman

Event Date:

2026-06-20

Status:

Unreviewed

Survey

Site Name:

13 Hardenberg St., New Brunswick

Province/State:

New Jersey

Event Date:

2026-06-20

Time of Day:

Night-Time

Start Time:

21:00

End Time:

21:30

Number of Observers:

2

Primary Observer:

Ed Chapman

Additional Observers:

Norma Hoffman

target_species_genus:

photinus

target_species_species:

pyralis

Location and Habitat

Location Accuracy (meters):

0-25

Habitat Type:

Developed - Sub/urban areas; parks/gardens

Habitat Type Notes:

Urban sidewalk, grass verge, honeysuckle bush, cherry trees.

Elevation (meters):

18

Area Searched (hectares):

1/6 acre

Artificial Light Sources

Vehicles: Yes
Street Lights: Yes
Buildings: Yes

Artificial Light Types

Sky Glow (diffuse illumination in the sky): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): Yes
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): No

Artificial Light Notes:

 

Observation

Observation Type:

With Flash Data

Number Observed:

2-10

genus:

photinus

Species:

pyralis

Observation Notes:

Only two males flying, one female in the grass.

Specimen Voucher Number:

Flash Behavior

First Flash Time:

21:00

Last Flash Time:

21:30

First Flash Temp (F):

83

Last Flash Temp (F):

83

Flashes in Pattern:

1

Flash Color:

Yellow

Flash Pattern Period:

6

Flash Duration:

brief

Flash Interval:

6

Male Height Zone:

Moderate (3-8 ft)

Flash Location:

Males, in the air, although one landed on the honeysuckle, hence the photo. One female in the grass

Male Flash Behavior:

Typical J-stroke.

Female Flash Behavior:

She flashed several times from the grass about five feet from where the males were flying. She didn't move from there.

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