Free nightly light show

Have you noticed something different in your backyard in the evenings lately? Sporadic flashing yellow or green lights show up this time of year in yards around the state. Fireflies (also called lightening bugs) are small beetles that use bioluminescence to communicate. The adult beetle’s abdomen blinks a specific pattern that, when combined with specific flight patterns, helps attract a mate. The young, larvae, do not fly but do glow. These young fireflies are loved by gardeners since they are ferocious predators that overpower snails, slugs and earthworms. You can often spot the young on damp ground near grass and brush.

Fireflies will be on display in yards through July so get out and enjoy this exciting light show while you can. For more information visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZYk.