How to Catch Fireflies in the Summertime

fireflies

Summertime and fireflies go hand in hand. Many remember watching and catching these lovable lightning bugs as kids during warm summer evenings and reading a good book by jarred firefly light afterward. Perhaps you’re far removed from your firefly-catching heyday or just need a little refresher before your next excursion. Either way, here are some handy tips for bottling fireflies in the summertime. 

Go Where They Are

While this is a self-explanatory tip, it’s still one worth mentioning. Fireflies love to hang out near water sources, including the edges of ponds, rivers, creeks, and lakes. They typically crowd around high grasses, marshlands, and other damp areas. However, they can also be spotted in fields and forests, gardens, and even in your front or backyard! Watch for the flashing lights, which give their location away. 

Mimic Their Light Patterns

Fireflies talk with one another through their flashing lights. The best way to get closer to fireflies is by sporting a flashlight and dimming other exterior lights that can confuse or scare them. To get even closer, shine your flashlight directly up and down in little flashes to mimic their lighting patterns. Avoid shining your flashlight directly at a firefly; this scares fireflies off rather than drawing them closer. 

It’s sometimes suggested to use LED lights—rather than a regular flashlight—if you’re struggling to attract fireflies. You can also modify your flashlight slightly to produce a similar effect. For instance, you can further lure fireflies by covering the flashlight with blue plastic or paper to change the color. Research suggests that fireflies don’t look at blue light as they do other colors, so the light doesn’t disturb their regular flashing. 

Be Careful When Catching

When you’re close, use a net to scoop the fireflies. Next, transfer the fireflies into a jar with a poked-through lid. To keep the jar air humid, put in a damp paper towel or coffee filter. Be sure to scrunch up the filter or towel to make folds for the fireflies to hide. Replace the towel to prevent mold or bacteria buildup. With this setup, your fireflies will be able to breathe and not wither out. 

Work as a Team

To effectively catch fireflies, it’s best to work together: One person manning the jar while the other rounds up the fireflies with the net. As fireflies aren’t the most durable of insects, remember to always use extra care when catching. 

Keep Them for Longer

If you want your fireflies to stick around for a day or two, supply them with some grub to dine on—leave apple or fruit slices in the jar with them to drink the juices. You’ll also want to periodically mist the container with water to keep them moist and happy. After a couple of days with them, let them go during the nighttime. During the night hours are when fireflies are most active, and the potential for predators is least. 

Vulcan Termite & Pest Control appreciates fireflies just like anybody else. What we don’t appreciate are other insects and pests invading our clients’ homes. If you have a pest problem, contact Vulcan to get it settled and squared away. We provide pest services to keep your home fresh, clean, and relievingly pest-free!