Stay that hand before you swat one of these two-winged wonders! We humans harbor too many fears and misconceptions about our friends the flies. Sure, some of them can cause trouble, but can you think of one creature on earth that can’t?
Come learn more about our friends the flies! Please join Chocorua Lake Conservancy and the Cook Library for “Meet the Friendly Flies,” a visual and reflective introduction to flies on Tuesday, July 18, at 7PM, live via Zoom, with educator and insect enthusiast, Linda Graetz. Like our fellow humans, there are thousands of flies out there ready to help us thrive on this beautiful planet. And, like our fellow humans, there are flies whose fascinating lives and sheer beauty can fill you with awe. Flies are a complex group of insects, some we call “bad” and some we call “good”. That alone leads us to reflect more deeply on our permanent and unbreakable bond to the natural world. This program is free; please register in advance below.
If you’ve joined our Zoom program, “Meet the Friendly Flies”, you're well prepared to head out to find and observe some of them—patience, close observation and describing what you see are the most important skills you’ll need. On Saturday, July 22, from 10AM-12PM, join us for “Why Fly When You Can Walk With Flies” in Chocorua. We'll look for flies and other insects; we’ll explore and learn together as we observe, describe, and share our finds with each other. Wear sunscreen, long pants and close-toed shoes. Please bring your own water, tick/mosquito repellant, and a magnifying glass if you have one. This free outdoor program is limited to 20 participants; please register in advance HERE. Children 8 and up are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult.
Linda Graetz is an educator and photographer who spent a very rewarding thirty years in museum and art education. An avid birder since the late 1970s, upon retirement she turned most of her attention to nature. She trained as a teacher/naturalist at Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm and taught there for more than 10 years. It was through her work there that her interest in insects was ignited. Her passion now is to inspire others to see and learn more about these amazing creatures.
Banner image: Robber fly. Photo: Linda Graetz