100 More Species #80: Firefly

Firefly Photinus sp.

This soft-winged bioluminescing beetle was brazenly basking on the rail of our front stoop. I rarely see nocturnal fireflies (the diurnal non-bioluminescing variety are musch more conspicuous) whether flying at night or at rest in day. One might think this creature was taking an unnecessary risk of predation, by bird or jumping spider. But this genus of firefly produces a distasteful chemical to protect itself from these enemies. Predatory fireflies, unable to generate this defense, are known to lure male Photinus fireflies with their own light to feed on them and make use of the protective chemical.

3:00 snapshot #1283: Spring Mushroom Walk!

( Snapshot hidden to protect the suddenly and surprisingly included in the snapshot project without proper notice )

Before the class I walked around looking for mushrooms--it had been extremely dry, and I wanted to make sure we were going to find some! I passed this guy on the path and we went our separate ways.
( Also some mushrooms )

3:00 snapshots #1284, 1285, 1286, 1287: work-related

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