By Lynette Cox
Research Coordinator Kelly Vowels recently documented three new firefly species at Bernheim, Tiny Lucy (Lucidota punctata), Elf (Pyropya minuta/decipiens), and the elusive synchronous Snappy Single Sync (Photuris frontalis). That brings the total number of known firefly species at Bernheim to 17.
“Identifying the firefly species found in our forest and prairies helps us to better understand their habitat needs and how to protect them,” explained Vowels.
Commonly known as lightning bugs, fireflies belong to the Lampyridae family within the beetle order Coleoptera. The Big Dipper (Photinus pyralis) is one of the most common fireflies in Kentucky and the Eastern United States. Often found in fields and meadows, the Big Dipper is likely the firefly species you tried catching in your yard growing up.
Declining of Firefly Populations
It is widely reported that firefly populations are declining across the globe. Research on firefly populations is limited. However, the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation reported assessments by the International Union of Nature’s (IUCN) indicate one in three assessed North American Fireflies may be at risk of extinction.
You may have noticed the decline in the number of fireflies in your own backyard. Why are the fireflies disappearing?
Declining firefly populations are most often linked to habitat loss, pesticides, light pollution, and climate change.
Simple Ways You Can Help Protect Fireflies
These simple actions can help protect fireflies and provide essential habitat for other pollinating insects, birds, and wildlife.
1. Reduce Light Pollution – Fireflies rely on their bioluminescence to find and attract mates. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that light pollution disrupts their mating process and lowers reproductive success.
Simple ways to reduce light pollution around your home:
- Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights.
- Use motion sensors, so lights are only on when needed.
- Install light fixtures that direct light downward and prevent it from spreading into the night sky.
- Contain indoor lighting by closing curtains and blinds.
2. Add Native Plants in Your Landscape – The National Wildlife Federation recommends planting native flowers that bloom throughout the summer. These plants provide sources of nectar and pollen for fireflies, bees, butterflies and other insects.
Common native plants that bloom in the summer include black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), and butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa). These popular varieties can be at our spring and fall plant sales and at local nurseries. Take a drive up Forest Hill Drive to see the black-eyed Susans blooming along the side of the road and near the Tin Man.
3. Modify Mowing Habits – By simply letting your lawn grow taller, you can help fireflies, pollinating insects, and other wildlife.
- Cut your grass a little less often. Fireflies thrive in taller grass where they can find moisture and shelter.
- Create a natural area by dedicating a portion of your yard to remain unmowed.
4. Leave the Leaves – Set aside an area of your yard to leave the leaves. Fireflies lay their eggs and spend the larval stage of their lifecycle in moist soil and leaf litter. The larval stage can last from a few months to two years, depending on the species. The female blue ghost firefly (Phausis reticulata) is flightless and spends its entire lifecycle on the leaf covered forest floor.
5. Avoid Using Pesticides – Pesticides are believed to be one of the main reasons for firefly population decline. The Xerces Society reports that pesticides threaten fireflies by killing them, changing their behaviors, and eliminating their food sources. Mosquito management and broadcast lawn treatments are often applied in locations where fireflies and other insects are found.
- Use natural pest control options, like companion planting, using physical barriers, and organic sprays. Companion planting can help attract beneficial insects, like ladybugs, while repelling and confusing other pests.
- Read labels carefully – If you must use pesticides, choose those labeled as safe for beneficial insects and use them sparingly.
- Encourage a healthy ecosystem – Encourage natural predators like birds, bats, and beneficial insects to help control pests. If you have the space, consider installing a birdhouse for purple martins or a bat box.
Want to learn more about nature and the flora and fauna that call Kentucky home, visit our events calendar. Our Volunteer Naturalists lead a wide variety of programs every month.
If you would like to learn more about fireflies, make plans to attend the James B. Beam Distilling Co. Firefly Dinner on Friday, June 26, 2026. You’ll enjoy a three-course meal prepared by an award-winning chef and special guided tour of the fireflies at Bernheim
Dig in & Learn More
New Firefly Species Documented at Bernheim, June 10, 2026
Blue Ghosts at Bernheim, June 23, 2025
More Than a Glow: Fireflies as Pollinators, June 19, 2025
The Fascinating World of Fireflies, May 29, 2025
Star Light, Star Bright, First Firefly Seen at Night, March 30, 2025
