The Museum of Science Invites You to Join Firefly Watch as a "Citizen Scientist"
Press Release [Return to listing page]
April 08, 2009
BOSTON—Are fireflies disappearing from our landscape? Become a "citizen scientist" and find out this summer! On Saturday, April 11, 2009, the Museum of Science, Boston kicks off its second Firefly Watch. This innovative online program invites people across the country to team up with other firefly watchers to track the activity of these insect populations where they live.
In 2008, to measure the effects of pesticides and human-made light on this amazing insect, the Museum of Science joined researchers from Tufts University and Fitchburg State College to explore the patterns, habits, and geographic distribution of fireflies. To date, nearly 1500 citizen scientists have participated in the Museum's Firefly Watch online.
The Museum launches the project's second year with a day-long celebration on April 11. Visitors of all ages can learn about fireflies at live presentations, talk to firefly scientists at the "Q&A" station, participate in children's activities, and join the "Firefly Parade" where everyone is encouraged to "bug" out in costume. Finally, meet other Firefly Watch participants and learn how you can join the program to experience the rewards of being a citizen scientist. To participate in Firefly Watch, register at: http://www.mos.org/fireflywatch.
Embodying the Museum's mission, this extraordinary program demonstrates one of the Museum's key concepts — that "science is an activity" anyone can try. Participants can track and collect data on the fireflies they see in their own neighborhoods and then submit the information to: http://www.mos.org/fireflywatch. The data emerging from this study provide a better understanding of firefly populations, where and when they appear, and other activity patterns. Firefly watchers will also discover how their own observations can shape the research by tracking their own data on a map of sightings.
The Museum of Science also provides tips for participants. For example, since fireflies communicate with light and handheld flashlights may disrupt their "conversations," firefly watchers may want to tape blue acetate over their flashlight beam. To see what fireflies might look like in action, visitors can interact with a "virtual habitat" at: http://www.mos.org/fireflywatch/virtual_habitat.
Join our network of volunteers across the country in this unusual research project that engages people with science in their own backyards. No scientific training or fee for participation is required.
Activities free with Exhibit Hall admission: $19 for adults, $17 for seniors (60+), and $16 for children (3-11). For more information, the public can call 617/723-2500, (TTY) 617/589-0417, or visit mos.org.
