Fireflies shine around us on summer nights

We are once again visited by luminous insects – fireflies!

These are small bugs, also called lightning bugs, that glow in the lower abdominal area. They glow due to a phenomenon called bioluminescence.

They use light signals for mating. Males attract females by flashing. Each type of firefly has its own flashing patterns.

Some of the females glow, too.

They are found in temperate and tropical climates. They live in marshy and wooded areas where the larvae have plenty of food.

However, they have not been faring well due to human impact on the environment

Their biggest threat is the loss of their living space. Scientists, therefore, recommend that we give them a place in our gardens.

Small pieces of wood and old leaves can be left at the edge of the garden, which is the perfect environment for firefly larvae.

It also helps to plant native shrubs or trees and let the grass grow underneath. This will preserve the moist environment fireflies love.

Another problem fireflies face is light pollution.

If the environment is too bright, males and females have a harder time seeing the light signals for reproduction. We can help by turning off lights at night.

In addition to fireflies, in Slovenia the beginning of summer is also marked by “kresna noč” (bonfire night). This is one of the most important folk holidays, which is celebrated by lighting bonfires on the night of June 23–24.

Some legends are associated with it – one says that on this night we can talk to animals if we put a fern seed in our pocket. Another says that we can become invisible.

They have a similar tradition elsewhere. For example in Catalonia, they celebrate the feast of St. John – the arrival of summer.

Points to Consider

1. Have you ever seen fireflies?
2. Do you know of any other animals that can emit light?
3. What is light pollution?

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The original version of this article was published on June 22^nd.