[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As your
backyard or patio becomes a go-to space to relax and enjoy summer evenings, you may be delighted by flickers of everyone’s favorite little flying lanterns. Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, show up across the U.S. this season in yards, parks, fields, meadows and woodland edges, according to the National Wildlife Federation. You may see them as early as June or as late as mid-Autumn, depending on the climate in your region.
Why do fireflies glow?
Technically beetles (not flies), firefly larvae grow and develop underground, coming to the surface as adults where they then spend the last few months of their lives flying through the night. They emit their famous flashes of light, a phenomenon known as
bioluminescence, as a result of oxygen combining with a chemical in their abdomens. While we find it beautiful, the glow serves a purpose for fireflies, either attracting partners or fending off danger.
For many of us, twinkling fireflies bring to mind warm summer nights spent with family and friends. On top of the nostalgia, they provide a beautiful natural light that can’t be replicated by artificial lights.
Although they’re not in the endangered category yet, scientists have noted concern over declines in several species, making it important for us to keep our environments firefly-friendly.
How to attract fireflies
Besides requiring warmth and humidity, fireflies have some preferences that may help you attract more of them to your backyard. Whether you have just a yard, a garden or a tiny terrace with a few plants, try these tips to attract fireflies this summer.
Turn off the lights
The simplest way to attract more fireflies is to decrease the amount of light in your space. Their natural flashes are a way to attract mates, so if there’s too much competing light, they may not stay long. On top of that, excess external light can negatively affect the natural mate-finding process.
Keep some grass in your yard long
Letting grass or shrubbery grow long can help attract fireflies both during the day and at night. If you’d rather not let uncut grass overtake your yard, consider planting some longer grasses in designated areas, such as along a back or side fence. Pampas grass, specifically, is beautiful, and fireflies love it.
Plant flowers
Fireflies love to nibble on pollen and nectar, making the addition of flowers great for drawing them to your yard. Any pollinating flower will do, so get creative and plant a variety of types and colors for you and your glowing visitors to enjoy.
Plant pine trees
The thick brush of pine trees is a great hangout spot for fireflies. The needles help keep out external light, yet there’s still plenty of ventilation. Additionally, fallen pine needles make for cozy nesting areas for the females to lay their eggs for the next generation of fireflies.
Avoid chemical pesticides
Harsh chemical pesticides are harmful to fireflies and are a surefire way to deter them from your yard. If you must use a pesticide, opt for a plant-based product like this
non toxic plant growth and pest deterrent. Additionally, fireflies feed off of small garden bugs, so you may want to encourage their presence if possible.
Provide a water source
Just like other backyard creatures, fireflies need water. A small fountain or pond is a great way to let them know they’re welcome. Unfortunately, It can also be a great way to attract mosquitos, so be sure to protect yourself with
natural bug repellant when spending time outdoors.
Supply wood
Whether it's firewood or just small bundles of sticks, wood (especially wet or rotting wood) may attract fireflies, as they love to lay their eggs around it. Once the larvae hatch, the wood also encourages a great ecosystem of bugs that the larvae can snack on.
Be sure to visit the
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