Fireflies are actually a type of beetle even though we always call them flies. You’ll also hear them called lightning bugs. 56 species of fireflies can be found in Florida and making your yard a place that fireflies want to be is about creating habitat. Fireflies’ diet primarily consists of slugs, snails, and worms when they are larvae and flower pollen, smaller insects, and possibly nothing when they are adults. Below are a few things you can do to make your yard a place for fireflies to be.
Reduce Pesticide Use – This is true for bees and butterflies as well as for fireflies. If you want to see more good bugs, you’ve got to use less pesticide. Reserve part or all of your yard as a pesticide-free zone to create a healthy habitat for all sorts of good insects.
Create Habitat – Wild areas are one of the best ways to create habitat for fireflies. Larvae feed on snails, slugs, and worms in the ground, so extra shrubs to protect ground moisture is important. Larger shrubs and trees also provide cover and protection for adults. Lakes, ponds, or any type of water are where you’ll often find fireflies, so preserving or creating a pond area will help too.
Reduce Light – If there are bright lights all around your home, you probably won’t see many fireflies, even if they are around. Turn off or turn down exterior lights and wait for the show.
Why Glow?– It is thought that fireflies use their bioluminescence to scare away predators as larvae and as adults to attract mates. Whatever their reasons are, we just love watching the show.