There was a time when Iowa summers sparkled. Kids chased fireflies at dusk, jars glowed on porches, and fields shimmered with soft golden light. Now, those familiar glimmers are fading. Firefly populations across the state are declining, and the reasons trace back to how our landscapes have changed.
From mowed lawns to pesticides to shrinking wetlands, their world is disappearing. Let’s explore what’s driving the loss—and how we can help bring the light back.
1. Light Pollution Confuses Their Signals
Iowa bright streetlights, porch lights, and security lamps are drowning out the natural glow fireflies use to find mates. Males flash specific patterns to attract females, but artificial lighting makes these signals nearly impossible to see.
When fireflies cannot communicate properly, they struggle to reproduce and their populations shrink. Turning off unnecessary outdoor lights during summer evenings gives fireflies a better chance to connect and continue their species in your neighborhood.
2. Pesticides Kill Firefly Larvae
Chemicals sprayed on Iowa lawns and crops to eliminate mosquitoes and other pests also harm firefly babies living in the soil. Firefly larvae spend up to two years underground before becoming adults, making them especially vulnerable to lawn treatments…