5th Recruitment 第五期招募 (2024 - 2025)
Background:
Firefly diversity in Hong Kong is surprisingly high, 29 species have been reported, of which 8 species are endemic to Hong Kong. More species are yet to be discovered. However, immature stages of most species are still not known, distribution and population data are deficient for all species. On the other hand, the very high human population density in Hong Kong are causing various threats to the survival of these curious living organisms. Examples are habitat loss, habitat degradation, land pollution and light pollution.
In 2018, Firefly Specialist Group was established under The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Species Survival Commission, targeting at Red List assessment of 1-10 flagship firefly species and 100-200 species by 2021. Hong Kong is going to actively participate in the project.
In order to conserve local firefly diversity, we need to know more about them, especially distribution and population of each species. We need to collect data systematically and comprehensively. Currently, firefly watchers, surveyors and researchers are highly deficient.
First recruitment was done in June 2020, second recruitment was done in June 2021, third recruitment was done in 2022, fourth recruitment was done in 2023.
The Hong Kong Firefly Red List Assessment Working Group was established on 2022, formed by 7 Firefly Survey Team members. Assessment of 6 HK firefly species were completed and published. Three species are listed as Critically Endangered, one species listed as Endangered, one species listed as Near Threatened, one species listed as Data Deficient.
Missions of Hong Kong Firefly Survey Team
1. For conservation purpose, conduct persistent and systematic surveys on Hong Kong fireflies;
2. To bring together people involved in firefly conservation and research to exchange knowledge;
3. For advancement and diffusion of knowledge in Hong Kong fireflies;
1-year program of Hong Kong Firefly Survey Team
A. 4 lectures on firefly biology, firefly ecology, firefly morphology and anatomy, firefly classification, firefly identification, firefly survey methods, skills and safety.
August 8, 2024 (Thu) 20:00 - 22:00;
August 16, 2024 (Fri) 20:00 - 22:00;
August 22, 2024 (Thu) 20:00 - 22:00;
August 29, 2024 (Thu) 20:00 - 22:00.
B. 6 practical trainings in the wild;
August 17, 2024 (Sat) 19:00 - 22:00;
August 24, 2024 (Sat) 19:00 - 22:00;
August 31, 2024 (Sat) 19:00 - 22:00;
November 2, 2024 (Sat) 18:00 - 21:00;
November 23, 2024 (Sat) 18:00 - 21:00;
December 7, 2024 (Sat) 18:00 - 21:00
C. at least 5 additional field surveys done by each team member From December 2024 to June 2025;
D. 2 meetings on survey methodologies and data processing.
Nov 21 (Thu) 2024 20:00 - 22:00
June 12 (Thu) 2025 20:00 - 22:00
Team leader: YIU Vor
- Author of : A Study of Rhagophthalmidae and Lampyridae in Hong Kong with descriptions of new species (Coleoptera): Part 1 & Part 2; Fireflies of Hong Kong 香港螢火蟲
- IUCN SSC Red List Authority Coordinator
- Treasurer, Fireflyers International Network
Medium of Instruction:
Cantonese if all participant speak Cantonese
English if some participants do not speak Cantonese but only English
Commitments of individual team member:
1. 100% attendance to lectures;
2. at least 60% attendance to practical trainings;
3. at least 5 additional field surveys done;
4. at least 50% attendance to meetings.
Program fee (Free)
HKES member HK$1000 deposit; Non-member HK$ 2000 deposit, payable to Hong Kong Entomological Society
Same amount as deposit will be refunded to all who has fulfilled all of the above 4 commitments.
Entry requirements:
1. 18 years of age or older
2. Strong interest on fireflies and conservation;
3. Macro-photography and videography skills;
4. Preferably with education background of zoology, entomology and/or ecology;
5. Enjoy working at night in the wild;
6. Able to walk fast and far on trails;
7. Familiar with trails in Hong Kong;
8. HKES members have priority.
How to join:
On or before August 1, 2024.
Applicants will be notified on or before August 4, 2024. Early applicants with better qualifications will be accepted and notified earlier.
Enquiry: hongkongfireflies@protonmail.com
