Why Experts Think Firefly Populations Are Declining in the United States

Where Have All the Fireflies Gone? Why Their Numbers Are Declining

When I was a kid, I remember spending hours outside in the evening, catching fireflies. It was one of the most magical parts of childhood. I remember kids pulling off a firefly’s glowing light and wearing it like a ring or collecting a whole jarful, only to forget about them. I thought that was cruel, so I always counted my fireflies and made sure each one flew away.

When my daughter was old enough to chase lightning bugs, I found a special glass jar designed for firefly hunts. It had a hole in the bottom. They instinctively crawl upwards but eventually find their way out if you forget to release them.

It seems like now, there just aren't that many fireflies dancing about the night sky. According to Firefly.org, scientists aren’t entirely sure why fireflies are disappearing, but they believe it's because of a few reasons.

The Synchronous Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains Viewing Dates

Read More: The Synchronous Fireflies in the Smoky Mountains Viewing Dates

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Fireflies Are Vanishing—Here’s What’s Causing It

Fireflies thrive in humid, moist environments and lay their eggs near standing water. When they are old enough to mate, they don't go far but will find a nice wide-open area to illuminate their buggy butts. ale fireflies light up the night in search of a lady firefly. Females can also illuminate but not as brightly. There are different species of fireflies and according to NC State University, different species will flash different unique signals to attract their own kind. Females will hang around shrubbery until they see that special signal.

Unfortunately, fireflies have lost a huge amount of habitat in recent years. Fields and forests are being paved over to make way for housing developments and commercial properties.

Having human neighbors isn’t great for fireflies. Not only do they lose their natural habitat, but the artificial lights from new developments create so much light pollution that females sometimes can’t even see the males.

And then there’s landscaping. Firefly larvae, also known as glowworms, live underground for the first couple of years of their lives. They rely on leaves and yard debris for protection and food. In the spring, they pupate just above the soil or on vegetation before becoming adults.

But when we start cleaning up our yards, mowing early in the year, or spraying chemicals, we’re unknowingly killing young fireflies before they even get their chance to shine.

Love Fireflies? Here’s How to Protect Them in Your Own Backyard

Want to see our firefly populations rebound? The good news is that we can help fireflies make a comeback.

First off, wait until after May to mow. I know it seems like a long time. If it make you feel better, you can get a little sign that alerts friends that you aren't being a derilict neighbor to them, just looking out for the pollinators and fireflies.

Second, don't use chemicals. Use natural fertilizers and pest control.

And finally, turn off the lights. Did you know over a billion migraiting birds die each year due to light pollution? When you turn off your lights, you save money and lives.

Save the Fireflies! Simple Steps to Help Them Thrive Again

Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are just such a sweet part of summer and vital to our ecosystems. Help ensure future generations get to experience this magic and wonder like we did by lending them a helping hand.