Light Up the Night

Discover what makes lightning bugs so eaptivating.

- KEN KEFFER

Whether you are lucky enough to see them in your backyard or plan to head to a local spot for prime viewing, lightning bugs are synonymous with summer. Let's illuminate some little-known truths about these fascinating, glowing creatures.

What's the Real Name?

More than 2,000 species of lightning bugs and fireflies exist worldwide, including 170 in North America. According to Adele Wellman, Allegany region environmental educator for New York State Parks, calling them either fireflies or lightning bugs is fine. "There is no difference between them; they are the same insects," she says.

Though both names are correct, these flashers are technically neither bugs nor flies. Instead, they are beetles. Next time you've got one in your hands, look closely for hardened wing cases, the elytra. This is a key beetle characteristic.

Growing Up

"Fireflies go through complete metamorphosis," Adele says. "They lay eggs in moist areas, and these hatch in about two weeks. The larvae grow for months, pupate underground or beneath tree bark, and then transform into adults."

Adulthood is short-lived for these beetles. Most adult fireflies survive for just days or weeks.