Light up the night

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.