July 2 Firefly Day In Georgia

There is exciting news for firefly lovers across the state! This year, Governor Brian Kemp officially proclaimed July 2 as Firefly Day in Georgia, recognizing the importance of these beloved insects and the efforts to conserve them.

The designation is due in part to a partnership between UGA Extension and the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, which have worked together for several years to protect and promote fireflies in North Georgia. Our efforts focus on helping residents, visitors, and students discover the fascinating world of fireflies while learning how simple actions—such as reducing outdoor lighting during firefly mating season—can help these insects thrive. Fireflies rely on their flashes to find mates, and excessive nighttime lighting can disrupt this important communication.

Georgia is home to approximately 50 species of fireflies, each adding a little magic to our summer evenings. Their twinkling displays inspire wonder, spark childhood memories, and connect us to the natural world.  

These insects also contribute greatly to our ecosystem when they are in the larval stage.  They help control slugs, snails, and cutworms.

Want to learn more? Kim Foster of the Fannin County Chamber created a fun Firefly Fact Game. Explore parks throughout Fannin County, collect firefly facts from kiosks along the way, and earn a glow-in-the-dark firefly pin at the Chamber Welcome Center. Not planning a trip to the mountains? You can still join the fun by downloading a free firefly life cycle art activity to enjoy at home.

This Eastern Firefly (Photinus pyralis) is Georgia's most common firefly.

Recently, I was interviewed on Atlanta Live about firefly season and our project.  We are spreading the word about these important insects!

Regardless of where you live, please join us the evening of July 2nd to enjoy the bright wonder of fireflies with your friends and family.  

For more information on fireflies in the Georgia mountains visit https://www.blueridgemountains.com/community/conservation/fireflies/.

For activities you can do at your home celebrating fireflies visit https://fireflieson.com/.

If you are excited about fireflies in the Southeast, Lynn Faust's book Fireflies, Glow-Worms, and Lightning Bugs is a great resource. Darksky.org has information on making your outdoor lighting more firefly friendly. This July 2, step outside after dark, look for nature's lanterns, and celebrate Firefly Day in Georgia!

Becky

Becky Griffin
National/Georgia Project Coordinator
beckygri@uga.edu