Keep Fireflies Glowing in Your Backyard There are several ways that you and your neighbors can help the fireflies in your area: Visit Marc Branham's "Firefly Files" web site, and learn more about these tips from him: Have a Chemical Free Backyard Reduce or, better yet, eliminate using chemicals in your yard. It's Like Using a Flashlight in Daylight Limit or reduce extra light. A firefly's ability to see other fireflies' flashes may be impaired if there is too much surrounding light. Think about it, it would be like trying to see a flashlight in the daylight. Also, it seems that some firefly species may not even flash at all if there is too much light. As Marc explains it, "many firefly species are active only during a certain period of the evening. These insects determine when they will flash (i.e., the time of night) by the intensity of ambient light. This is why you don't see many fireflies flashing on clear nights when the moon is full." Plant or preserve low overhanging trees, tall grass or similar vegetation in your yard, which will provide adult fireflies a place to rest during the day and remain cool. Copyright 2003 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form