While contributing data to the Firefly Atlas is a great way to help researchers learn more about fireflies, it’s not the only way to support firefly conservation efforts! Here are some simple actions you can take today:
- Provide habitat! Set aside a part of your yard or garden where things can get a little wild.
- Include a variety of native plants, from grasses and forbs to shrubs and trees
- Leave the leaves and mow less frequently
- Certify your yard (and share the word) with this Certified Firefly Habitat Program
- Avoid pesticide use, which can kill fireflies and their prey or degrade habitat
- Turn off your outdoor lights at night, especially during the summer firefly season, or make your lighting more firefly-friendly by utilizing dimmers, motion detectors, or timers to limit the extent and duration of nighttime light
- Check out other firefly community science projects
- Spread the word and let others know about fireflies and their needs
- Donate to the Xerces Society, which is working to conserve fireflies and their habitats
