Butterfly photo by George Luther  

Dancing Colors & Tigers of the Sky: The Butterflies and Dragonflies of CREW 
Facilitator: Dr. Clyde Sorenson, Distinguished Alumni Professor of Entomology, NCSU

A CREW Strolling Science Seminar 

South Florida is a uniquely tropical region in the continental United States, and its insect fauna dramatically illustrates this. Of the 155 regularly occurring butterflies in Florida, 88 can be found in and around CREW properties; about 25 of these won’t be found any further north!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

There are also about 130 species of dragonflies  and damselflies in the state. Among all these species are some of the most spectacular insects in North America, and every one of has an important and interesting role in the ecosystem it inhabits. Come learn about this unique and beautiful sub-tropical diversity!

Many of the butterflies of CREW have important relationships with native host plants which may be scarce in the rapidly developing, non-protected areas surrounding the properties. All of the dragonflies and damselflies of CREW rely on healthy, high quality aquatic habitats during their immature phases, and all play critical roles as vigorous predators of other arthropods both in the aquatic habitats of their youth and the aerial habitats of their adulthood.

During this presentation, we will not only address identification of these insects; we will also try to impart an appreciation for their ecological significance.

What to wear/bring: Wear outdoor clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Bring close-focusing binoculars, cameras, bug spray, sunscreen. 

This is part of the CREW Strolling Science Seminar series, a series of six scholarly walking seminars designed specifically for adults to gain in-depth knowledge about wildlife and the watershed. 

The CREW Strolling Science Seminars are supported in part by a Public Outreach Grant from the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program (CHNEP). The Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program is a partnership to protect estuaries in southwest Florida from Venice to Estero Bay.

FAQs

 Is there an age limit for the event?

This event is for adults only.

 What are the parking/facilities  like at the trails?

There is a grassy parking lot at the trailhead. There is one portable restroom at the trailhead.

 What are the trails like?

The trails are mostly grassy/sandy ground level trails with some boardwalk sructures over wet areas. Expect seasonlly wet/muddy places on the trails during the rainy season (July - November). 

 Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Yes. You may give your spot to someone else. Be sure to change the information on your registration page or call us at 239-657-2253.

 Can I update my registration information?

Yes, you may update your registration information up to 24 hours before the event.

Do I have to bring a printed ticket to the event?

No. We do not issue print tickets. Simply check in with the event leader at the time of the event.