Less mating means fewer fireflies, which means fewer chances for Hoosiers to enjoy chasing fireflies on a warm, summer evening. If too much light surrounds their habitat, there is a chance that males and females won’t find each other to mate. Fireflies use their bioluminescence to attract mates. Light pollution-the excessive use of artificial light-may also be driving firefly populations down. As more forests and open fields are developed, their habitat becomes threatened. As they grow, they tend to stay near where they are born. Most species of fireflies are born and thrive in the rotting wood and understory of forests near lakes and ponds. Most scientists and researchers believe that development and light pollution are driving them away. Populations are dwindling throughout our country and the world. Unfortunately, we may be chasing after fewer and fewer of these magical insects each summer. Predators who have had a mouthful of this chemical quickly learn to associate the firefly’s glow with a very bad taste. Most species of fireflies are filled with a nasty tasting chemical. Males and females of the same species will flash this pattern to notify each other of their presence.įireflies also glow to warn predators to stay away. Every species of firefly has its own distinct pattern of flashing their light-producing bottoms. When attracting a mate, it all comes down to the twinkle. Bioluminescence is a chemical reaction that allows fireflies to produce a cold light that emits little to no heat.įireflies glow to communicate with potential mates as well as predators. Debris also harbors worms, slugs and other pests that fireflies feed on.Chasing after the blinking glow of fireflies on a warm, summer evening is a favorite childhood memory for many.įireflies, also called lightning bugs or glow worms, are winged beetles known for their bioluminescence in the twilight hours. Don’t be in a hurry to rake up leaves, as fallen plant debris creates an effective firefly habitat. Plant groundcovers or low-growing plants, which keep the ground moist and shady. Keep the environment around your house as dark as possible, as lights interfere with light signals and makes the firefly’s lights difficult for potential mates to see. Fireflies remain on the ground during the day – usually in long grass or shrubbery. If possible, leave a few areas unmowed, as perfectly manicured lawns aren’t good firefly habitat. Chemical fertilizers can harm fireflies and other beneficial insects.Īllow your lawn to grow a bit longer. Switch to natural fertilizers, such as manure or fish emulsion. Chemical pesticides and herbicides are partly to blame for the bugs’ diminishing numbers. Learn about natural ways of controlling insects and weeds. It may be fun to catch lightning bugs in glass jars, but you’ll be doing them a huge favor if you allow them to complete their entire life cycle undisturbed. Fireflies are reportedly extremely nasty tasting and some species may be poisonous. The glow of firefly larvae (glowworms) serves a different purpose by frightening away potential predators. Each firefly species has its own distinctive flash patterns. Outdoor Recreation Animals and Wildlife Are They Lightning Bugs Or Fireflies Southerners Know The Answer These light-up insects put on the most magical show of the summer. The light produced by fireflies is a chemical reaction used to signal members of the opposite sex. Despite the name, they aren’t flies, but rather a type of winged beetle. Lightning Bug Informationįireflies are nocturnal insects. Are you interested in discovering ways to attract lightning bugs? Just keep reading to find out how to get lightning bugs in your yard. Their diminishing numbers are due to use of toxic chemicals, destruction of wetlands, urban sprawl, clearing of forests, and light pollution. The bad news is that fireflies are disappearing all over the world. Even better, most species are predatory, feeding on the larvae of insect pests, as well as on slugs and snails. Attracting lightning bugs to your garden is definitely a good thing to do, as unlike many other less desirable bugs, these beneficial insects don’t bite, they aren’t poisonous, and they carry no diseases. Lightning bugs in the garden are a visual treat for people who live near lightning bug habitats – primarily damp areas east of the Rocky Mountains.
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