The first opportunity will be the Locals' Night, Wednesday, June 14 All local residents and campers of Forest County are invited to join us for a FREE special preview night of the fireflies in Kellettville. We will depart from the Black Caddis Ranch at 9:00 pm to walk to the Kellettville bridge to view the "Chinese Lanterns" and the return by 10:00 pm to walk into the forest to view the "Synchronous" firefly. Weather will be factor, so if we have thunderstorms or temperatures below 60 degrees, we will reschedule for Friday, June 16. RSVP on the Facebook page.
Here are some suggestions to enhance your firefly experience.
- Dress for walking in the forest. Wear sturdy footwear, long sleeves and pants.
- Bring a walking stick/trek poles.
- Flashlights should be covered with a blue or red filter, or let your eyes adjust to the darkness and see the brilliant show naturally.
- We encourage an up close and intimate experience with the fireflies. Children may catch fireflies, but we ask that they release them as soon as possible after observing them.
- Fireflies don't sting or bite, but ticks and mosquitos do. If you choose to wear insect repellent, please DO NOT handle the fireflies. If you dress protectively and check for ticks when you get home, you should not have to worry.
That same evening, we will be training new Firefly Guides. All interested Firefly Guides are asked to come at 8:00 pm to get the information they need to lead nightly walks and the 100s of fireflyers at the festival. Guides this year will be compensated and should apply in advance on the Pa Firefly Festival website.
More to come next week, when we will blog about the Seasonal Nightly Walks, and the Silent Sparks Benefit. Check out the pafireflyfestival.org for more information too.