Posted in New Jersey
August 16, 2020
Fireflies Are On The Rise In New Jersey – Here’s Why
With all the bad news out there, it’s nice to enjoy a little good news every now and then…and we’ve got some for you. Fireflies are on the rise in New Jersey this summer! First things first…do you call them fireflies, lightning bugs, or something else? Share with us in the comments!
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Turn off porch and outdoor lighting when you don't need them. Add water features to your yard, if possible, and avoid pesticides. Use natural fertilizers and plant pine trees. These are just some of the ways we can help fireflies.

Some species glow, while others flicker. Fireflies inhabit all continents except Antarctica.

While there is no absolute explanation for this, there are several theories involving diet, altitude, and social interactions. Three areas where synchronization is recognized and well-known include Malaysia (along rivers in the jungle), Elkmont, Tennessee, in the Great Smoky Mountains during the first weeks of June, and Congaree National Park in South Carolina.
When they synchronize, they can do so perfectly! Also good to know…fireflies aren’t actually flies (they’re soft beetles) and their light is the most efficient known light in the world. Nearly 100 percent of the energy in the chemical reaction that causes their bioluminescence is emitted as light.