AT HOME
You can't attract fireflies to your property, but you can create conditions for a firefly-friendly yard, according to Sid Mullis, the coordinator of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service for Richmond County. Here's how:
- Larvae are found in rotting wood, so denser foliage and a woodsy yard help. Adults feed on nectar, which is found in most flowers.
- Low, overhanging trees and high grass give fireflies a place to rest during the day before their evening flights.
- Turn off the lights: Artificial lights can confuse the bugs in flight looking for a mate.
- Cut down on pesticides and chemicals used in the lawn.
"Though these won't guarantee you success, they'll improve the odds," he said.
SIGNAL CORPS
Males flash and fly to attract a mate. Females flash in response. Some fireflies, commonly found in north Georgia, have a synchronous flash, which Dr. Copeland is studying.

