Report: Firefly Walk in Bukit Kiara
Member's Report
By HY Leong
It was a rather wet night, which threatened the cancellation of the walk. Friends of Bukit Kiara (FoBK) volunteers had checked the weather from the Bukit Kiara Trail Guardhouse at 6.30pm, and then at 7pm. The rain continued to fall. Forecast apps were also consulted, and one by one, members withdrew their participation. Of the 21 members who had registered for the walk, 13 members including 4 children eventually assembled at the guardhouse decked out in ponchos, rain coats and umbrellas.
The firefly walk presented an opportunity to know Nature and act for Nature. While waiting for the other participants to arrive, MNS Selangor Branch participants presented a donation of RM420.00 to the Friends of Bukit Kiara for its ongoing citizen science project on the fireflies of Bukit Kiara.
Joining other members of the public, we gathered in smaller groups of 5-7 walkers with 1-2 guides. Half an hour into our walk, the rain finally petered off into a drizzle. As promised, after the rain stopped, we were treated to many fireflies 😍.
Thanks to FoBK volunteers for guiding us along tarmac and trails of Bukit Kiara. We saw what lay under leaf litter, side of drains, on tree barks, under plants and in the air. Every flicker of light was exciting. We were mesmerised by what we had learnt from the knowledgeable guides. After three and a half hours, we ended our walk back at the guardhouse. Members who withdrew due to the rain may join the next public walk by FoBK.