fireflies

Fireflies rely on precise control of flash timing for two purposes: finding mates, and luring prey.

In the group Photinus, flashing represents a visible courtship signal. Within each species, males and females identify members of the opposite sex based on flash timing.

In the group Photuris, flashing serves an additional purpose. Female Photuris fireflies are highly specialized predators that can facultatively imitate the flash signal given by other species' females. Using this false signal, these predatory females are able to lure in unsuspecting Photinus males, then eat them.

http://ase.tufts.edu/biology/Firefly/

PNAS article with above findings: http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/94/18/9723

also fascinating: http://iris.biosci.ohio-state.edu/projects/FFiles/

more hilarious scientific research

A forest in South Carolina has been peppered with fluorescent bird droppings, all in the name of conservation. The unusual technique was used to track the movement of birds between patches of their preferred habitat after it has been broken up, in this case by stretches of pine trees.

The scientists sprayed wax myrtle seeds, a favourite food of eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis), with fluorescent powder and then tracked the brightly coloured results.

http://www.nature.com/news/2005/050627/full/050627-12.html