Rose of Sharon Jewelry

1-2-3-and more! Grab a lawn chair and start counting – fireflies that is. You can enjoy a lovely evening and help out science learn if fireflies are disappearing.

Scientists from the Museum of Science, Boston are trying to determine whether the glowing firefly is disappearing. By gathering data from volunteers from over 700 volunteers across the U.S.

There are over 200 firefly species found east of the Rockies (sorry folks, they aren’t in the West). A chemical reaction in their body creates twinkles in yellows, greens and pale blues.

Volunteers have a tough job – they are require to spent at least 10 minutes a week counting fireflies, noting their light patterns and various colors. They are still in need of volunteers and this would be a great family project.

The goal is to build a 10-year database of information for scientists to review. They started in 2008 and that data is online at Firefly Watch for everyone to review.

Kids love fireflies and an after-dark picnic would be a wonderful way to bond and learn about science. You can even observe them in your pajamas in your own backyard!

Growing up in Oregon, I never saw a firefly. I was lucky to spot my first firefly during a business trip to Indiana in my late 30s! I immediately became a kid again!

Southern states still have fireflies in the evening to take  some time to stop and watch. If firefly season has ended in your area, you can still volunteer early for next season.

Learn more about the Firefly Watch and become a volunteer before the season ends.