Insect Lighting in Green Swamp

We will be continuing our tradition of regular sampling at Green Swamp. Our last trip, one month ago, was a great success with multiple large silkmoths (including two luna moths), lots of sphinx moths, large beetles, and a small assortment of herps. We've got two lights now: a double 4-ft fluorescent blacklight and a 175W metal halide. We plan to run both of these lights on our upcoming trip.

We will be going out to the same location this coming Saturday, September 8. David will be on-site by 6pm, and we can arrange a carpool leaving from USF around 5pm. Sunset is at 7:42, and that is when we will turn on the lights. The best action is usually between 9 and 10:30, and we usually stay until 11-12. In the past, insect activity has slowed around this time.

There will be little to no walking on this trip, but you will want tightly closed shoes (dark if you have them) to keep the bugs out. I normally recommend dark long pants that can tuck into your socks, and a dark long-sleeve shirt, since we can't use bug spray around the sheets. Basically, cover your skin and avoid white clothes.

Considering the success of our pot-luck at Hillsborough River State Park, let's do the same for dinner on this trip. As before, David will supply plates/cups/utensils and Nils will bring his grill. Extra picnic chairs and extra flashlights will also be extremely helpful.

If you are interested, please email David Durieux for specifics regarding location, logistics, and contact information.