

Moths, Owls And Fungi With Over 20,000 Sexes...Oh My!
24 snips Jan 27, 2025
Join a fascinating night hike through Patuxent River State Park, where unique winter adaptations take center stage. Discover how lichen glows under UV light and meet bioluminescent mushrooms that enchant the night. Learn about the thrilling search for salamanders and wildlife, and dive into community science events like the City Nature Challenge. This adventure emphasizes the connection between nature and humanity, highlighting both the magic and ecological importance of our environment.
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Lichen Fluorescence
- Lichen, a symbiotic organism of fungi and algae, fluoresces under UV light.
- This is a protective mechanism against the sun's ultraviolet radiation damage.
Moth Gathering and Owl Calls
- Moths, drawn to the broad spectrum of mercury vapor lamps, gathered on a fabric sheet.
- Matt Felperin, a naturalist, imitated owl calls, hoping to attract them.
Community Engagement and Winter Fungi
- Matt Felperin learned owl calls during the Great American Campout, a nationwide outdoor initiative.
- Anna Kahanui, using iNaturalist, showed off a snow fungus, highlighting the diverse winter life.