Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89187002517?pwd=Ujc1UTEyVjNNbDhUUFJYMjFCV2lNdz09
Meeting ID: 891 8700 2517
Passcode: 212786
Join Ben for a fascinating exploration of Texas’ enchanting fireflies, where you’ll discover the diverse species that light up the Lone Star State’s wild landscapes. Ben has done extensive research on Texas firefly taxa, highlighting the fascinating species found in nearby river basins and riparian areas.
He will show us how to identify common firefly species and learn their flash patterns so you can recognize them in the wild. You’ll also discover why fireflies flash and how they use light to attract mates. Additionally, he will discuss specific threats that are causing fireflies to disappear in many areas of the United States. Ben will then explain how to certify your property as a firefly habitat, suggest native plants you can grow to help them, and share other ways you can contribute to saving these iconic insects.
In 2009, Ben founded Firefly Conservation & Research. It is a recognized firefly conservation and educational organization working to conserve fireflies and their habitats through conservation, education, and research efforts. The mission is to help lead the charge to conserve fireflies in the US and illuminate the threats to their existence. Fireflies are important components of our riparian ecosystems, and their dazzling flashes are well known. Our enjoyment of them is part of the human experience with nature and helps us to understand how vital their habitats are to our planet and why they must be preserved for future generations.
In addition, Ben is a recognized public speaker and science educator whose research work focuses on Texas and North American firefly species. He is working to document the Texas and Southwest firefly diversity and its natural history regarding their life cycle, preferred habitat, and unique flash patterns. His research is helping to illuminate much of this never before collected information about Texas’s incredibly rich firefly diversity so that others can work to preserve and enjoy it.
He is a member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Firefly Working group. He frequently works with groups like Xerces, Texas Parks & Wildlife, Master Naturalists, The Nature Conservancy, land trusts, state and local commissions, private landowners, and others. Ben studied Biology at Texas State University and is a certified Master Naturalist. He is a 6th generation Texan and has spent most of his life working to understand Texas ecology and its unique diversity.
Photo: Firefly
