Celebrating Fifteen Different Species!
The Pennsylvania Firefly Festival celebrates the annual mating displays of over fifteen different species of firefly in the Allegheny National Forest area including the Synchronous firefly and the unique "Chinese Lantern" firefly along the Tionesta Creek. The Annual PA Firefly Festival takes place on June 24, 2017 on the grounds of the Black Caddis Ranch B & B in Kellettville, just 15 miles east of Tionesta on Route 666. The address is 13558 Route 666, Tionesta, Pa 16353; call us at 814-230-2035.
Synchronus Fireflies
The Photinus carolinus, also known as the Synchronous Firefly, was discovered and confirmed to be in the Allegheny National Forest in the summer of 2012. A team of world-class Firefly scientists from Tennessee and Georgia came to Black Caddis Ranch for 10 days, and traveled throughout the ANF collecting specimens and studying the diversity of fireflies. The P. carolinus is unique in that its flash patterns are in synchrony with each other, so they appear to be a string of Christmas lights hanging in the forest. Other witnesses have likened it to camera flash bulbs at a sporting event. The only other confirmed habitat in North America is in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.
Join Us for Local's Night!
New this year: Wednesday, June 14th, 9 pm at Black Caddis Ranch. Bring your camp chairs and dress for the weather; rain date is Friday, June 16. This is a free event to give local residents a chance to see the fireflies without having to brave the crowds at the Festival. RSVP on our Facebook Page starting April 1. Don't want to fight the crowds on June 24th? There are many opportunities to get your firefly fix! Just call to reserve your spot in a paid walk to see the fireflies between June 16-July 1. Contact Peggy at Black Caddis Ranch to schedule your walk at 814-463-7606.
