While summer may bring to mind vacations and school break, nature has its own way of celebrating the season—and it’s pretty spectacular. Take a walk through Shelby Farms Park and you’ll notice: everything is buzzing, blooming, and showing off.
Here’s a peek at what’s new in nature…
Bloom Alert!
Wildflowers are blooming—well, wildly! Look for coreopsis, blazing star, and black-eyed Susans painting the Meadowlands near the Park’s main entrance off Farm Road with vibrant color. While you’re taking a stroll hit our Pollinator Trail—planted on Earth Day—located near the Farm Road and Mullins Station Road. You might spot mason bees, Gulf fritillaries, viceroy butterflies, and paper wasps hard at work in this pollinator paradise.
Oh Deer! If You See a Fawn, Let It Be
It’s fawn season, and spotting a baby deer curled up in the grass is not uncommon. But don’t worry—it’s not abandoned.
Mother deer often leave their fawns tucked away while they forage nearby. The fawn’s best chance for survival is to stay hidden and undisturbed.
Remember
✔️ Don’t touch or move it—even if it seems alone
✔️ Observe from a distance
✔️ Let nature take care of its own
It may tug at your heartstrings, but trust us—intervening does more harm than good.
Firefly Magic
Fireflies are out in full glow this time of year, especially near the Dog Park at twilight. If you’re really lucky, you might spot the rare and elusive blue ghost firefly, which has been spotted nearby. These mysterious creatures don’t blink—they glow, casting an eerie bluish-green light as they float through the dark understory like tiny lanterns. They’re hard to find, but worth the patience.
Firefly Fun Facts:
Blue ghost males don’t flash—they glow steadily for up to a minute with a bluish-green light.
Females are tiny, flightless, and glow low to the ground, waiting for their glowing suitors. You won’t see them in a storm. Light rain is fine, but heavy rain sends them into hiding. They need a healthy forest floor with thick leaf litter to support their larvae.
Appearances start at very late twilight (around 9:30 p.m.) and peak in the first 90 minutes of full dark.
Patience is key—conditions must be just right, and sometimes the magic skips a night. But a quiet evening outdoors is a reward in itself.
Fun Is Part of Human Nature
Summer fun isn’t just for the fireflies and wildflowers—it’s for you, too. Whether you’re looking to move, groove, or just chill, there’s something special about enjoying nature with your people. These warm days invite us all to get outside, connect, and savor the simple joys—no planning required.
Here are just a few ways to make the most of your summer days:
- Paddle Hyde Lake for a breezy escape on the water
- Rent a bike and cruise the Greenline or other scenic trail loops
- Cool off at the Water Play Sprayground or explore the Woodland Discovery Playground
- Stretch under the sun with free outdoor fitness classes including yoga and pilates
- Picnic under the trees with friends, family—or just your favorite book
Make It a Summer to Remember
No matter how you choose to spend your time—on a bike, on the water, or simply wandering through wildflowers—summer at Shelby Farms Park is all about discovery. It’s a season to slow down, breathe deep, and let nature do what it does best: bring people together, spark joy, and create lasting memories. So come early, stay late, and soak up every golden moment. We’ll see you out there.
This blog was written by Torie Finch
Torie Finch is a writer and communications specialist at Shelby Farms Park. A proud Memphian with a passion for storytelling, she blends creativity, community, and culture to highlight what makes the 901 shine.
