Synchronous Fireflies Outing

This special evening event has been arranged for TCWP by Becky Charles and her son, Ezekiel, at their home between Oak Ridge and Clinton. Snappy Single Sync fireflies (Photuris frontalis) are a medium-sized synchronous species of firefly with a warm yellow flash that live in wooded environments. Their synchronous behavior is quite different from the more famous Smokies Synchronous firefly (Photinus carolinus). They produce continuous, quick, rhythmic flashes every half a second to one second. When viewed in small groups they may seem somewhat random, but when viewed in large numbers, it becomes apparent that they are receptive to their neighbors’ flashing. Large clusters and occasionally whole hillsides may converge on the same rhythm, as if the forest has a heartbeat.

The viewing trail is relatively smooth and just wide enough to let a vehicle pass. Our walk leaders will use glow sticks at the front and rear of the group to help participants orient; however, it is a forested trail that will be dark. This event may not be suitable for anyone with particularly poor night vision or who is at all unsteady on their feet.

**Please also note that the trail is .78 in length down to a creek area and same length back up.  The incline, though not steep, is steady.  If you need to take a break on the way back up, our hosts will accommodate you.  

We will meet for carpooling in Oak Ridge at the Gold’s Gym/Books-A-Million parking lot (meet at the end close to S. Illinois Avenue, near Salsarita’s). The fireflies become active toward the end of dusk, so participants should be at the parking lot at 7:45 p.m. Eastern. Parking on the property is limited so we will car pool. Participation in this outing will be limited; to register, contact TCWP Executive Director Nancy Manning, nancymanning@tcwp.org.  Non-members can join at the $25 level to participate in this event.