This summer, Chicagoans are experiencing a delightful resurgence of lightning bugs, also known as fireflies, across the city.
These enchanting insects, famous for their glowing bioluminescence, have been observed to be more abundant this year than in previous summers.
Illinois state entomologist Christopher Dietrich noted a significant uptick in the population of these beetles following a couple of years of decline due to unfavorable climate conditions and habitat threats.
According to Allen Lawrence, the associate curator of entomology at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, this summer’s favorable conditions, including a mild winter and a wet spring, have helped the firefly larvae to thrive.
Firefly larvae undergo complete metamorphosis similar to butterflies and feed on a variety of soft-bodied organisms, including vegetation, snails, and worms.
Lawrence explained that the rainy spring allowed ample food sources, helping these larvae to survive better.
“They survive better when it’s not too hot and [it’s] nice and moist,” he said.
Moreover, milder winters with fewer freezes contribute to the overall survival rates of fireflies.
As the nights grow warmer, Chicagoans are eagerly welcoming back the familiar flashes of light that mark the start of summer.
A Reddit post celebrating the return of lightning bugs captured the excitement, amassing 140 comments from Chicago residents reminiscing about their childhood sightings.
One user noted that while they once saw hundreds or thousands of these glowing beetles in the 90s, there had been a noticeable decline in the past decade, but this year brought an abundance back to the Avondale neighborhood.
The common eastern firefly, scientifically known as Photinus pyralis, is affectionately referred to as the “big dipper firefly” due to their distinctive J-shaped flight pattern.
These glowing insects not only provide visual joy to residents but also serve a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
Lawrence pointed out that their bright colors signal to potential predators that they are toxic to consume.
As a result, fireflies can be calm and more approachable in their behavior, making them great companions in gardens.
“They’re really docile, they don’t bite, don’t have stingers, just really friendly,” he said.
While adults focus on mating during the summer, some females use flashing lights to lure prey, which Lawrence humorously likens to ‘catfishing.’
Despite this summer’s resurgence, concerns remain regarding the broader trends affecting fireflies and other insect populations.
Lawrence highlighted that fluctuations in firefly populations are common and noted that various stressors, especially climate change and habitat loss, have continued to threaten their survival.
Block Club reported in 2019 that the Chicago area has seen significant declines in its insect population, including fireflies, due to climate-related factors.
Amid these challenges, last year the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed naming a specific group of East Coast fireflies as endangered.
“Long term, they’re facing a lot of stressors like less rainfall, droughts, habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide use,” Lawrence stated, emphasizing the need for awareness and conservation efforts.
The summer’s blooming population may offer a moment of joy, but it is essential to keep an eye on the long-term health of these magical insects.
image source from：blockclubchicago
