Examples of Extinct Species

FUN FACT

How to Catch a Firefly

Get prepared for this year! Fireflies start appearing as early as April and May in the US. Learn tips on how best to catch and release fireflies. LEARN MORE

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Create a Firefly Sanctuary

Join many others around the world in creating firefly sanctuaries and habitats in their own backyards! Learn how to make one to attract fireflies and get practical advice on how to get started. LEARN MORE

FIREFLY FACT

Number of Species

In North America, there are an estimated 270+ species. Worldwide there is estimated 2400+ species. These numbers are going up as new Lampyridae species are described by scientists.

FUN FACT

Why Blink?

The purpose of blinking is so that male fireflies can find potential mates. If you watch long enough you will be able to pick up on their unique flash pattern. Try to remember it so that next time you see a firefly flash you can identify it.

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Have you seen a firefly?

Firefly scientists are in urgent need of your observations! Become a citizen scientist and record your sighting using iNaturalist. Using our helpful guide you'll learn what you need to know to document an important firefly observation.
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FUN FACT

Making Light

Fireflies combine three special substances in their photic organs to make light. The three substances are: luciferin (a pigment), luciferase (an enzymatic catalyst), and ATP (nucleotide that provides energy to cells). As they breathe in oxygen, it charges this reaction and by regulating the amount of oxygen they take in they can modulate the flash they produce!