Turn down the lights to turn up the glow!

Lights Out Wisconsin urges communities to reduce light pollution to benefit fireflies in June and July. Please share this with your networks!

Peak firefly season in Wisconsin runs from mid-June through late July, but many species can be seen from May through the end of August.

Lights Out Wisconsin is urging everyone to turn off or dim non-essential outdoor lights and close window shades from sunset to sunrise to help fireflies communicate and reproduce.

For many of us, fireflies are a cherished part of summer. Unfortunately, many species are declining, and it is estimated that at least 14% of firefly species are threatened. Habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide use are considered some of the greatest threats to firefly populations.

One of the most immediate ways you can help is by reducing artificial light at night. Fireflies use flashing signals to communicate and find mates, but outdoor lighting can obscure these signals, making it harder for fireflies to reproduce successfully. Turning off non-essential outdoor lights and reducing nighttime brightness can help ensure their signals are seen.

Other ways to support fireflies:

• Leaving the leaves: Fireflies spend much of their lives in leaf litter and soil, leaving some leaves and natural debris provides important habitat for developing fireflies.
  

• Avoiding pesticides: Pesticides can harm fireflies directly and limit the availability of other invertebrates they depend on for food.
  

• Keeping some natural areas in your yard: Native plants, and less-managed areas provide shelter and habitat throughout the firefly life cycle.

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Lights Out Wisconsin is a coalition of Wisconsin conservation groups and dark sky organizations working together to reduce the impacts of light pollution on people, wildlife and the night sky.