Researchers say fireflies thrive in climates that are warm and wet, and conditions in Michigan over the past year match that description.

If summer nights seem a little brighter in Michigan this year, you’re not imagining it.

Favorable weather conditions in recent years have led to an explosion of firefly activity.

Researchers say fireflies thrive in climates that are warm and wet, and conditions in Michigan over the past year match that description – with the results shimmering every evening at dusk.

Nathaniel Walton is a consumer horticulture educator for the Michigan State University Extension in Leelanau County.

He says fireflies have a two-year lifecycle, most of which is spent near the ground as larvae before they emerge for an adult lifecycle that lasts just a few weeks.

If conditions take a turn for the worse at any point during those two years, like an unusually dry late summer or early fall, it could have devastating effects. < “We can’t necessarily count on them being good again this year just because they were good last year,” Walton said.

  • HuntressHimbo@lemmy.zipEnglish
    2·
    13 hours ago

    Seeing how many fireflies we’re getting this year makes me a little proud of managing my lawn in a way thats beneficial. Definitely helping my mood to have a little light up hope spot most nights

  • givesomefucks@lemmy.worldEnglish
    2·
    13 hours ago

    Researchers say fireflies thrive in climates that are warm and wet

    Grass is absolute dog shit at keeping the ground conducive to bugs like firefly’s.

    If you let broadleafs like clover spread, it keeps the sun off the ground which prevents it from drying out. That makes it better for the larva, and you’ll see more adults flying around.

    Because of their visibility, they make a good barometer for how environmentally friendly your yard is.