About the GAFH
The Great Arkansas Firefly Hunt (GAFH) is a community science project started in 2025 by the Arkansas Firefly Initiative, in partnership with the Arkansas Master Naturalists and the University of Arkansas.
Our goal is to develop a complete, up-to-date list of Arkansas firefly species by the end of 2027.
Did You Know?
There could be 30 different firefly species in Arkansas - maybe even more!
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Each species has its own unique habitat and behaviors. However, there's a lot that we don't know. You can help us fill in the missing information about the fireflies in the Natural State.
A current list of species and their habitats is critical for firefly conservation. We have a draft list of species in our Field Guide, based on historical and a few recent observations, but the list is not complete.
Why It Matters
Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are an important part of our history and heritage here in Arkansas. Their glow brings magic to hot summer nights, and glimpsing the first flash of the evening can turn us all into kids again.
However, fireflies are at risk. Some species that were here 50 years ago may not even be here anymore, but we can protect the ones that are left.
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How? First, we need to know more about these beautiful bioluminescent beetles. Developing a list of the species that currently live in Arkansas is an important first step.
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Many fireflies live in specific habitats, and some species may exist only in isolated pockets. With so many places to look, scientists need as many people as possible to help find these fireflies.
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This is where you come in. ​Join the Great Arkansas Firefly Hunt and help us learn more about Arkansas fireflies!
How It Works
Observations
Individuals or groups record firefly observations on the Arkansas Firefly Hunt website. Resources are available to help people identify firefly species.
Map Updates
As observations are recorded, Species County Maps are updated to show where people are seeing each firefly species.
Species Confirmation
A trained survey team goes to one or more observation sites to confirm the presence of a species in a county.