Dogwood Alliance
Our Forests. Our Strength.
Protect Lightning Bugs and Fireflies
Lightning bugs and fireflies are one of the most beloved species on Earth. Their ability to produce light inspires wonder and delight. Fireflies are an indicator species. Their populations are declining across the world. That’s a sign that the health of the planet is in jeopardy. We need urgent action to protect the habitats fireflies need to survive.
Take the pledge to protect lightning bugs and fireflies.
Commit to doing everything you can to ensure fireflies and lightning bugs thrive. To brighten the lives of future generations.
I commit to protect fireflies and lightning bugs. I will:
- Advocate to keep forests and wetlands standing. I will champion the protection of forests and wetlands locally, nationally, and globally. The destruction of firefly habitat is one of the greatest threats to their survival. Lightning bugs need undeveloped, undisturbed forests and wetlands. I will defend the places they need to survive.
- Reduce light pollution. I will avoid bright outdoor spotlights, porch lights, and landscape lighting on my property. Bright lights make it hard for fireflies to find potential mates. It can also disrupt their developmental stages. I will use red light bulbs or filters that won’t interfere with their displays and growth.
- Avoid using toxic pesticides. Pesticides can include insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. I will leave my yard or areas of my yard untreated. I will use non-toxic pesticides when possible. This will support the lightning bug life cycle.
- Go native. I will plant and allow native grasses, plants, and trees in my yard to grow. Native flora provides the best conditions for fireflies to thrive.
- Go low, not mow. Mowing can compact the soil. This reduces moisture and aeration that fireflies need. I will find a low to no traffic part of my yard. Especially if it’s near a natural water source. I promise to not mow this area. Or I will replace that area with a low groundcover that doesn’t need mowing.
- Leave the leaves. I will not rake fallen leaves. Instead I’ll leave fallen leaf litter on the ground. This increases the soil moisture fireflies need. It also provides natural cover for lightning bugs at various stages of their life.
- Watch, not catch. Adult fireflies have limited time to live. I will enjoy their natural beauty by watching them. I understand that catching lightning bugs can interfere with future generations. If I do catch lightning bugs in a jar, I promise to release them within 24 hours or less. I’ll avoid leaving them in air conditioning or in direct sunlight. I’ll include some crumpled, damp paper for moisture and shelter.
- Eat organic. When possible, I will avoid buying fruits, vegetables, grains, or other food treated with pesticides. Commercial non-organic agriculture uses toxic chemicals that harm most insects and native plants.
- Synchronize and inspire. I’ll encourage my friends, family, and neighbors to take these actions with me. When we all act together, we have a greater impact. Just like fireflies do.