US EditionSwarms of Fireflies in Illinois This Summer Give Enthusiasts Hope that the Insect Can Overcome Population Decline
NEW YORK AND NEARBY REGIONS, JUL 15 – Sightings of fireflies have increased this summer despite long-term declines caused by habitat loss and pesticides, conservationists say, with educational events raising awareness across multiple regions.
- On July 11, 2025, Beatriz Swanson joined a firefly hike in Bolingbrook, Illinois, where she caught and released two fireflies while observing their blinking communication.
- Concerns about firefly populations stem from habitat loss, pesticide use, light pollution, and limited scientific data that mostly remains anecdotal according to experts including Richard Joyce and Chris Schipper.
- The New Canaan Land Trust operates a dedicated 6.5-acre firefly sanctuary in Connecticut that provides the dark and woodland habitat essential for nearly 2,000 firefly species worldwide and 170 in North America.
- Experts urge the public to aid conservation by reducing outdoor lighting, limiting pesticides, maintaining natural vegetation, and supporting groups like the Xerces Society as many firefly species have declined in recent decades.
- Increased sightings this summer and regional educational programs have raised hope that public engagement and suitable habitats might help fireflies overcome threats and preserve their role in inspiring childlike wonder.
17 Articles
17 Articles
The Quad-City Times
Dispatch ArgusSwarms of fireflies in Illinois give enthusiasts hope that insect can overcome decline
Reports of fewer fireflies in recent years have sparked worry for the future of the insect’s population. More sightings this summer have boosted hopes for the survival of the insect.
Swarms of fireflies in Illinois this summer give enthusiasts hope that the insect can overcome population decline
Beatriz Swanson can remember the first time she saw the blinking glow. She was 10 years old, growing up in Mexico, when two fireflies appeared in front of her, floating away before she could carefully capture them in her hands.
Thousands of fireflies put on a magical light show at CT sanctuary – Knowhere News
It’s a quintessential summer scene. Fireflies light up the night sky while children and adults revel in their beauty, pointing at each new flickering glow. But this isn’t a public park or someone’s backyard, this is a dedicated firefly sanctuary. “It’s dark, which is what fireflies love,” Chris Schipper, my guide for the night, says. We put on bug spray, grab flashlights and carefully walk over tree roots and mud. “We’re going to take a somewhat…
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