WHO KNEW it is Easy to Help Bring Back our Fireflies?

Some of us older folks remember chasing fireflies in our youth.  

There are 150 species of firefly beetles in the US, and all of them are in decline.  Reasons for the decline are: light pollution, insecticides, degradation or loss of habitat and climate change.    As with many other insects, re-wilding just a tiny corner of your yard could provide habitat for these special bugs.  With a mixture of tall flower stalks (preferably native), tall grasses and a place that is a bit damp with fallen branches, leaves, or logs the insects should feel welcome.  

 For most firefly species, females will send out their light signals from a roost above the ground in that ‘wild’ area, and males will respond to the signal. These insects start blinking in twilight, but they are confused by outdoor lighting, so keep those lights to a minimum (and maybe you will see more stars too).  Perhaps your neighbors will follow your lead and add to your ‘wild’ yard.