Watching fireflies brighten up fields and meadows is a summertime favorite, but did you know these dancing beetle lights are species-specific and that you can learn to read their flash patterns? Learn how and why fireflies light up and how to identify them by their flash patterns in this online program. You'll also learn more about a wide array of environmental issues these lightning bugs help inform us on, including climate change, habitat loss, light pollution, and pollinator protection. Familiarize yourself with our nationwide Mass Audubon community science project, Firefly Watch, and local opportunities to get involved.
Interested in learning more? Join us for one, some, or all: this program is one part of a 7-session Wonders of Spring Series - online. You do not need to register for other sessions, or the full series, to enjoy this one. However, by registering for the series before March 28, 2023, you'll get access to all 7 sessions for the price of 6. (March 28: Frog and Salamander Migration, April 11: Bud Burst, April 25 - Early Spring Wildflowers, May 2: Fantastic Ferns, May 16: Singing Frogs, May 30: Drumming up Woodpeckers, June 13: Decoding Fireflies)
Corresponding in-person programs will be offered at many Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuaries, perfect for practicing the lessons learned here in the field. See our program catalog for more.
You will receive the Microsoft Teams Link to log into the program in your confirmation. An email reminder will also be sent to you 24 hours before program start.