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? Like our fellow humans, there are thousands of flies out there ready to help us thrive on this beautiful planet.
If you'd like to learn more about these fascinating beauties who are essential to life on earth, please join Chocorua Lake Conservancy and Cook Memorial Library on Saturday, July 22, from 10AM-12PM for “Why Fly When You Can Walk With Flies” in Chocorua. Educator and insect enthusiast Linda Graetz will share her knowledge about the basics of how to identify flies—patience, close observation and describing what you see are the most important skills you’ll need. We'll look for all kinds of flies, keeping our eyes peeled for ones that we met on Linda's 7/18 Zoom (see below). We'll also be looking for other insects, especially the pollinator insects, including bees, wasps, and ants, that some flies mimic, as well as insects that some flies eat! We'll explore and learn together. Wear sunscreen, long pants and close-toed shoes. Please bring your own water, tick/mosquito repellant, and a magnifying glass if you have one. The free outdoor program is limited to 20 participants; please register in advance below. Children 8 and up are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult.
Linda is also offering a program via Zoom in advance of the walk: “Meet the Friendly Flies,” on Tuesday, July 18, at 7PM. If you weren’t able to attend, but would like to watch it before the walk, you can watch it HERE.
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: Syrphid fly. Photo: Linda Graetz