Join Wil Hershberger, a local insect expert, for an evening insect walk at Cool Spring Preserve. Listen and learn about all the various insects we hear in the summer and early fall months!
PVAS Host: Wil Hershberger
Free and open to the public. For ages 16 and older. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and limited to 18 participants.
PVMN Continuing Education Credit Eligible
Wil will lead an exploration along the CSP trails passing through meadow, woodland and marsh. Insects likely to be encountered include tree crickets, several species of meadow katydids, one or two species of round-winged katydids, northern true katydids, oblong-wing katydids, and perhaps some bush katydids. In 2017, this very walk found the first documented occurrence of Long-spurred Meadow Katydid in Jefferson Co., WV. Hopefully, we will see them again, and who knows what else may be found.
Those who wish to participate should bring a flashlight and be prepared (if you choose) to walk through high grass and weeds.The walk will not take place if it is raining.
- Walking Distance: About a mile or less
- Pace/Activities: Leisurely (meandering, many breaks to stop and observe)
- Exposure: Some areas are covered by forest canopy, some areas are open.
- Terrain: Hard ground/hiking trail in some areas, mowed grass in other areas. Gentle slopes/rolling hills
- Restroom: Port-a-Pottys will be available.
- Parking/Where to Meet: Check in at the back deck near the bottom of the stairs next to the Case Nature Center.
- What to Bring: Dress for the weather and bring a flashlight! Remember that it can get substantially cooler at night. Tucking pants legs into socks and spraying them with an insect repellent is recommended.
Registration will remain open until the start of the program.
Read our pricing structure & policies.
About Wil: Wil Hershberger is a lifelong naturalist whose award-winning photography and sound recordings reflect more than a decade of dedicated observation of the natural world. His work, especially of birds, frogs, and insects, has been published in books, magazines, and calendars, and his recordings are archived at the Macaulay Library of Natural Sounds at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Wil and his wife Donna share their passion for nature through their West Virginia-based business, Nature Images and Sounds, LLC. Learn more at natureimagesandsounds.com.