Observation: Photinus pyralis
Primary Observer:
Katie Hietala-Henschell
Event Date:
2026-07-09
Status:
Unreviewed
Survey
Site Name:
Malan WPA - South Marsh (2)
Province/State:
Michigan
Event Date:
2026-07-09
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
21:16
End Time:
22:48
Number of Observers:
2
Primary Observer:
Katie Hietala-Henschell
Additional Observers:
Maria Salem
target_species_genus:
photinus
target_species_species:
aquilonius
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Open Freshwater Wetland - Wetland Bog, fen, freshwater marsh
Habitat Type Notes:
High quality wetland (~2 hectares) bordered by mixed deciduous and oak forest to the south and restored meadow to the north. Open water in the wetland habitat with cattails and marsh grasses along the margin.
Elevation (meters):
284
Area Searched (hectares):
0.25
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): 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:
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
50+
genus:
photinus
Species:
pyralis
Observation Notes:
15 mm. Along edges of wetland and abundant in adjacent meadow. Hundreds flashing in the adjacent meadow. Activity peaked around between 9:45-10:15. Much less activity but still some flashing at end of survey after 10:30.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
21:18
Last Flash Time:
22:48
First Flash Temp (F):
76
Last Flash Temp (F):
72
Flashes in Pattern:
1
Flash Color:
Yellow
Flash Pattern Period:
5.5
Flash Duration:
0.5
Flash Interval:
5
Male Height Zone:
Low (0-3 ft), Moderate (3-8 ft)
Flash Location:
Flashing activity was low in the grass and above the tall grass. Mostly along the survey area on the path, along the edge of the wetland (but not over the water), and along the woodland edge.
Male Flash Behavior:
Yellowish glow about 1/2 second long, swooping up in a J-shape. Dark interval typically around 5 seconds. Some were flashing as frequently as every 4 seconds.
