Be part of a huge scientific investigation … just by watching fireflies!
This time every spring, we see the return of one of the most magical creatures of the night: fireflies.
Just by watching once a week for these bioluminescent bugs, your child could be part of a large-scale scientific investigation called Firefly Watch. Launched in 2008, Firefly Watch is a joint venture among scientists at Tufts University, Fitchburg State College and the Museum of Science in Boston. These scientists are looking for data that may reveal how firefly populations are changing and how they may be affected by factors including pesticides and artificial lighting.
You can sign up to watch for fireflies in your yard, then log your observations online. The minimum time commitment is 10 minutes one evening per week through the summer — but motivated observers could do as much as they wish. Those who really want to dig deep can also view data being collected by other observers throughout North America.
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