Observation: Photuris
Primary Observer:
Katie Hietala-Henschell
Event Date:
2026-08-31
Status:
Survey
Site Name:
Ford Lake - North Side
Province/State:
Michigan
Event Date:
2026-08-31
Time of Day:
Night-Time
Start Time:
21:11
End Time:
22:15
Number of Observers:
14
Primary Observer:
Katie Hietala-Henschell
Additional Observers:
Tara Bal, Hannah Arnett, Ash Florian, Emma Goodman, Cora Hargrove, Aine Houston, Isabelle Mannel, Sara Meikle, Olivia Miller, Gabrielle Smith, Catherine Wolosocki, Sylvie Zawacki, Faith Fisher
target_species_genus:
unknown
target_species_species:
unknown
Location and Habitat
Location Accuracy (meters):
0-25
Habitat Type:
Woodland/Forest - Trees dominant, and in the over-story
Habitat Type Notes:
Mixed deciduous and coniferous forest along lake. Understory relatively open in forest with leaf litter and ferns present. Rocky along lake edge with hummocks and low spots throughout site. Tall grasses, some cattail, and joe-pye-weed in low spots with wet mucky soil.
Elevation (meters):
401
Area Searched (hectares):
0.33
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): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Light Trespass (light cast on surfaces beyond its intended target): No
Glare (bright light causing visual discomfort): Yes
Artificial Light Notes:
Observation
Observation Type:
Without Flash Data
Number Observed:
2-10
genus:
photuris
Species:
unknown
Observation Notes:
At least 5 Photuris larvae observed. Measured two individuals 1) 14.5 mm and 2) 17 mm.
Specimen Voucher Number:
Flash Behavior
First Flash Time:
Last Flash Time:
First Flash Temp (F):
Last Flash Temp (F):
Flashes in Pattern:
Flash Color:
Flash Pattern Period:
Flash Duration:
Flash Interval:
Male Height Zone:
Flash Location:
Photuris larvae were present in upland forest near downed logs and walking amongst the leaf litter, at the base of a live grass patch. They were also observed near edge of wetland patch low in the muck. Volunteers dug down in soil to reach them.
Male Flash Behavior:
Intermittent glow.
