Observation: Photinus pyralis
Primary Observer:
Richard Joyce
Event Date:
2026-05-13
Status:
Unreviewed
Survey
Site Name:
JC Raulston Arboretum
Province/State:
North Carolina
Event Date:
2026-05-13
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
20:15
End Time:
21:15
Number of Observers:
25
Primary Observer:
Richard Joyce
Additional Observers:
Numerous participants in Firefly Field Night, including both members of the general public and Master Naturalist students.
target_species_genus:
unknown
target_species_species:
unknown
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
25-50
Habitat Type:
Developed - Sub/urban areas; parks/gardens
Habitat Type Notes:
A botanical garden with mostly non-native species. Lawns, shrubs and trees.
Elevation (meters):
144
Area Searched (hectares):
0.5
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): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): Yes
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): Yes
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Artificial Light Notes:
Observation
Observation Type:
With Flash Data
Number Observed:
2-10
genus:
photinus
Species:
pyralis
Observation Notes:
First pyralis flashes observed at around 8:29 (~20 minutes after sunset). Photographed male was 14-15 mm long. Flashing activity was observed around the Southall Garden and the woody vegetation along the main path between the education center and the Necessary.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
20:29
Last Flash Time:
20:55
First Flash Temp (F):
70
Last Flash Temp (F):
70
Flashes in Pattern:
1
Flash Color:
Yellow
Flash Pattern Period:
Not recorded
Flash Duration:
Not recorded
Flash Interval:
Not recorded
Male Height Zone:
Low (0-3 ft), Moderate (3-8 ft)
Flash Location:
Around the Southall Garden and in shady areas along the main path.
Male Flash Behavior:
Upward swooping yellow flashes at moderate intervals.
Female Flash Behavior:
Not observed.
