Buggin' Out: Nighttime Insect Adventure in Bowling Green
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient as the activity involves light walking and standing on mostly flat terrain.
Overview
Join Lost River Cave for Buggin' Out, a captivating nighttime insect adventure in Bowling Green. Discover moths and beetles under the stars with expert guides leading the way!
Buggin' Out
Explore the world of nocturnal insects!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join naturalists John Zippay and Ricky Shive for an unforgettable evening at Lost River Cave, where you'll explore the enchanting world of nocturnal insects. As darkness falls, use UV lights and bedsheets to attract fascinating creatures like moths and crickets, revealing the hidden wonders of the night.
Come "bug out" with us at Lost River Cave!
Explore the world of nocturnal insects with John Zippay and Ricky Shive! Using bedsheets and UV lights, we'll attract moths, assassin bugs, crickets, and any other nighttime flying friends who come out to share the night.
Details: • Check-in begins at 7:30pm at the back of the gravel parking lot. • Sunset comes at 8:00pm, and then the lights come on! • This event is after hours, so restrooms will not be available. • Bring a flashlight or headlamp, a water bottle, and a camping chair if you wish. • Please do not wear bug spray!
Adventure Tips
Bring a flashlight with red light mode
Red light is less disruptive to nocturnal insects and will help preserve your night vision.
Wear closed-toe shoes
The terrain near the cave can be uneven and damp, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Avoid using strong scents
Perfumes and insect repellents can deter the insects you're here to attract.
Dress for varying nighttime temperatures
Even in summer, evenings can cool down quickly, so layering is advisable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Luna moth
- Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly
History
Lost River Cave has been a significant natural landmark for centuries, once used by Native Americans and early settlers.
Conservation
Lost River Cave actively promotes sustainable ecotourism practices to protect its unique ecosystem and nocturnal wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bowling Green
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
UV flashlight or black light
Attracts nocturnal insects effectively for observation.
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm during cooler nights in fall.
fall specific
Bug spray (applied carefully)
Helps manage mosquitoes but avoid using near the sheets to not repel insects.
summer specific
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Protects feet from uneven and damp terrain around the cave.