Species Snapshot
TYPE:
Flashing firefly
GENUS:
Photinus
SIZE:
Med to Large (9 - 19 mm)
HABITAT:
Wide variety of habitats, including lawns
MONTHS:
June, July, August
TIME:
Before sunset and ends shortly after sunset
Flash Pattern
P. pyralis
How to Understand the Flash Pattern image
The background of the image represents a common habitat where the firefly might be seen. The colored dots or dashes represent the flashes over time and across space (height and distance flown between flashes). Note the number of flashes, the timing in between flashes, and the color, duration, and shape of the flashes.
Note that the flash pattern will often get faster as the temperature rises.
Physical Appearance
P. pyralis
Size:
Pronotum:
(Head Shield)
Med to Large (9 - 19 mm)
Light yellow with a dark oval or round central spot bounded by red
Scutellum:
Pale
Elytra:
(Wing Covers)
Dark with well-defined, light yellow borders
Abdomen:
Thorax:
Eyes:
Dark
Dark
Large. Male's eyes are larger than the female's.
Male has lanterns on abdominal segments 6 & 7. Female only has lantern on segment 6.
Lanterns:
Legs:
Short
Map of Arkansas Sightings
P. pyralis
More information on IUCN Red List of Threatened Species