Fireflies
Fun fact, fireflies aren’t actually flies. They’re beetles. And not all of them light up. There are approximately 2,400 species of fireflies worldwide, but not all have bioluminescence through adulthood. In fact, only one species is found east of the Rocky Mountains that blinks in pattern, so you’re lucky if you have some near you. Fireflies thrive in tall grass and leaf litter and eat mostly earthworms, slugs, snails, and other soft-bodied insects while in their larval stage.
Why do they light up? Fireflies light up with patterns and colors specific to their species. These light shows are how the males and females communicate when mating. This is the last act of their lifecycle before laying eggs and they often don’t eat at all during mating. The larvae that hatch are also bioluminescent and are often called “glowworms,” but so are many other insect larvae species.
Not seeing as many as you used to? Unfortunately, these beautiful bugs are declining. Light pollution from towns and cities make it much harder for their lightning flashes to be seen, inhibiting their reproduction. Loss of habitat due to land development and pesticide use have also contributed to firefly declines.
How you can help? • Turn off your lights at night. Let the lightning bugs do the shining. • Mow tall. Keeping your grass longer (3.5-4 inches long) so fireflies have the home they need. • Plant native plants. Support the preservation of firefly habitat and create new patches where they may be needed. • Leave your leaf litter. Rake it to the side if you want, but don’t chop it or haul it away. Firefly eggs are nestled in there. • Avoid pesticide use. Pesticides disrupt the egg and larvae stage of fireflies.
Monica Mundrick Conservation Chair