Firefly ID Basics
A lot of firefly species look very similar (or identical!), so how can you tell them apart? Look for these clues:
HABITAT
Some species are habitat specialists, living only in meadows, forests, or wetlands. Other species are generalists and can be found in a variety of habitats.
SEASON
There are spring, early summer, mid-summer, and late-summer species. There's even a winter firefly!
TIME
Look for different species before sunset, after sunset, and even late into the night. There are also day-active fireflies.
FLASH PATTERN
Each species has a unique way of flashing to attract a mate. Observing the flash pattern is critical for firefly ID.
PHYSICAL TRAITS
If you can catch one, you might see some physical clues.
Go on a Firefly Hunt
Are you ready to record some firefly observations? Here are some tips to help you stay safe and get good data for the project.
TIP #1 Decide where you want to look for fireflies. It could be your own backyard, a field near your home, a local wildlife preserve, or even a state or national park. If you do not own the property, make sure you have permission to be there after dark. If you plan on catching a firefly, you will need permission and possibly a collection permit.
TIP #2 Find a friend or group to go with you, both for safety reasons and to help ID fireflies (it can be tricky!). There are inherent risks in being out in nature at night, including, but not limited to, poor visibility, animals, and vehicles. Take precautions and search for fireflies at your own risk.
TIP #3 Review the Field Guide before you start hunting. Put together a short list of fireflies you could see, based on season and habitat.
TIP #4 Gather your equipment. You will need:
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a smartphone to enter your observations
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a red flashlight or red light app on your phone to help you see when walking (using a regular flashlight or the flashlight on your phone will disturb the fireflies)
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bug spray (apply it before you enter an area that might have fireflies)
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a net if you plan on catching a firefly to take a photo
TIP #5 Don't be discouraged if your first hunt doesn't go as planned. It takes some practice to find and ID fireflies. If you start getting frustrated, just relax and enjoy watching the fireflies!
Want Advanced Training?
Watch Firefly Atlas Videos. Learn more about fireflies, how to identify them, and and how to do advanced surveys by watching these videos from the Xerces Society.
Contact the Arkansas Firefly Initiative. We can let you know how to join our survey team as an observer. If you want to get even more involved, we can train you to become a surveyor in your county.