Every year, between mid-May and mid-June, the Congaree National Park in South Carolina becomes a mesmerizing sight as thousands of synchronous fireflies put on a dazzling display of flashing lights. These unique fireflies, known as Photuris frontalis, synchronize their belly lanterns to create a magical show for lucky visitors. In North America, there are only three species of synchronous fireflies, adding to the rarity and wonder of the experience.
While these synchronous fireflies steal the show with their coordinated flashes, there are over 2,000 different species of fireflies worldwide, with new ones still being discovered by scientists. The hope among firefly experts and enthusiasts is that the annual displays in places like Congaree will raise awareness and appreciation for all types of fireflies, including those that are less studied and protected in the U.S. Community scientists are actively involved in projects like the Firefly Atlas, where volunteers can contribute to firefly surveys and sightings. Individuals who love fireflies can also play a part in their conservation efforts by refraining from using pesticides on their lawns and minimizing light pollution near their homes.
The enchanting phenomenon of synchronous fireflies not only captivates visitors but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these fascinating insects and their habitats. The efforts of scientists, community volunteers, and firefly enthusiasts are crucial in ensuring the well-being of firefly populations across the country.
This article was originally featured on NPR by science correspondent Pien Huang, highlighting the magic and science behind synchronous firefly displays. For more captivating stories about wildlife wonders, listeners can tune in to Short Wave on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Supporting NPR’s work can be done by subscribing to Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave. The episode was produced by Rachel Carlson, edited by Berly McCoy, fact-checked by Pien, and engineered by Kwesi Lee.
