HorseAbout blog. Trail riding in the Western Cape

Fire Flies & Glow Worms

11/16/2012

On our first moonlight rides of the season we were treated to a magical sight. A memory of magic from our childhood - fireflies!!

Did you know?
Glow-Worms & Fireflies. Also known as Lightning bugs and 510Watt worms, Glow-worms and fireflies are in fact neither worms nor flies, but beetles.

Fireflies have dedicated light organs located under their abdomens. The insects take in oxygen and, inside special cells, combine it with a substance called luciferin to produce light with almost no heat. Firefly light is usually intermittent, and flashes in patterns that are unique to each species. Each blinking pattern is an optical signal that helps fireflies find potential mates. The adults of glow-worms and fireflies do not feed, but their larvae prey on snails.

Did you know that fireflies are disappearing all around the world? Human encroachment and pesticides appear to be the main causes. Considering the expanse of forest and damp terrain in our forest, we hope that “our” colony of fireflies will continue to light our way on night rides!

2 Comments

John & Jo

We are the owners of horseAbout Trails & Adventures in the Western Cape.
We are passionate about horses and safe, fun riding and we are also fortunate to live and ride in an area of unsurpassed natural beauty.

Horse back riding takes you back to a time where haste was less important, allowing more time for conversation and awareness of your surroundings. We like to have time to show our guests the wild flowers, see the 'elephants' and sleeping pharaohs silhouetted in the mountains.

Just over an hour from Cape Town situated between Ceres and Tulbagh, we offer horse trail rides for the whole family and all abilities.

Our scenic horse trails take you through working farms up into the foothills of the Witzenberg Mountains with panoramic views of majestic mountains and Tulbagh Valley.

Well trained horses and expert guides ensure an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Ask about our tailor made wine and olive tasting trail rides.
We look forward to introducing you to our magnificent horses and breathtaking valley.

“We left the premises with heart full of joy, love for these amazing horses and admiration for the lifestyle of John and his family.”
Tina, Germany
November 2012

Cass

11/22/2012 06:18:04 am

I was on a horse for the very 1st time about 2 weeks ago (11 Nov 2012) and John and Jo made me experience so worth while. "My" horse Fred was absolutely Amazing... It was almost like he knew I was a beginner and practically helped me all the way through my ride :-) John was our tour guide through the farm / mountain / river... He was just as amazing. All I had to do was follow John's instructions on what to do going down or up an embankment and the rest was, as they say in the Westerns... "history" :-) Thx again you guys at Horse About and I hope to visit you sooooon!

Cass & Taryn

Jo Lister link

11/23/2012 02:22:11 am

Hi Cass and Taryn - it was amazing having you guys and thank you for being so patient with us being a little late with some errant equines!! hope to see you soon in the saddle again! John and Jo

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Fire Flies & Glow Worms

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John & Jo

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