We are looking for the Little Gray Firefly (Photinus marginellus) in Massachusetts and Rhode Island in order to understand its response to light pollution. Learn more about our firefly project and its implications for conservation here.
We are looking for volunteers to survey potential firefly habitat after sunset. No experience required! Read more below and reach out to owenslabfirefly@gmail.com to learn about when, where, and how you can identify this species and help with our project.
How do I know if I’ve seen a Little Gray Firefly?
This is what the flash pattern of a Little Gray Firefly looks like — a single flash every 4 to 5 seconds while flying slowly and near vegetation.
Where can I find Little Gray Fireflies?
Potential sites you can embark on a firefly expedition at are linked here. The map below shows our regions of interest if you see any within these areas. You can conduct a firefly survey on your own by walking around near forest edges, fields, and lawns at sites in urban Boston, Worcester, and Providence (white circles) or their rural surrounds (black circles).
Have you seen a Little Gray Firefly?
Email us at owenslabfirefly@gmail.com or fill out the form below to let us know!
If you’ve spotted a Little Gray Firefly, we want to hear about it! Please fill out the form above OR send an email to owenslabfirefly@gmail.com with “firefly sighting” in the subject line. Include the following, if possible:
✦ Date and time of sighting
✦ Location of sighting
✦ Description of habitat
✦ Description of flash behavior
✦ Video of its flash behavior
✦ Photo of it in your hand