Hunting for fireflies is a typical pastime of summer nights. Fireflies are fascinating insects, and the thought of having your own might be tempting. With a little patience, delicacy and persistence, you will quickly become an expert firefly hunter.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Finding the Fireflies
Step 1. Search in the right places
Fireflies are found in various environments, such as in forests and near rivers; they prefer tall grass and humid areas. You can find them all over the world: in Europe, the Americas and Asia. In the United States, fireflies are rarely seen west of the Rocky Mountains, while they can often be encountered in the Deep South, Midwest, and East Coast.
Step 2. Wait for the best time
The best time to go hunting for fireflies is during the warm summer evenings - usually between June and September. These insects tend to be active at dusk when it is still warm. Usually, you can find them in the countryside or in the suburbs.
As night falls, the air cools and some fireflies stop lighting
Step 3. Attract fireflies with a flashlight
Since these insects communicate using their light, it is sometimes possible to attract them using a flashlight. Pay attention to the rhythm at which the fireflies light up and try to mimic it by turning it on and off in the same way.
Consider placing a blue sheet of paper on your flashlight to make the light colorful. Scientific studies have shown that fireflies react better to blue light than normal light
Step 4. Turn off the exterior lights
Fireflies rely on light signals to mate, which is why they are attracted to dark places. Turn off the lights outside your home, such as those on the porch or driveway, to attract more fireflies.
Step 5. Stay quiet and move quietly
Like most animals, fireflies are frightened by loud noises and sudden movements. When on the hunt for fireflies, be sure to move slowly and quietly. The more you can be relaxed, the quieter the fireflies around you will be.
Part 2 of 3: Catching the Fireflies
Step 1. Catch the fireflies with your hands
If you approach slowly and carefully, the fireflies will continue to fly undisturbed - their calm, graceful movements make them fairly easy to catch. When you are at the right distance, bring your hands close to the firefly and try to cup them around it. Be careful not to leave any escape routes open, but make sure it has enough space not to get squashed between your palms.
It may take several tries. Don't be discouraged; keep trying in a relaxed way, keeping calm
Step 2. Use a screen
You can purchase a net at most home improvement stores or build one using a small net. To catch some fireflies with a net just wave them in the area where they are present until you catch one. Always move carefully, slowly and gently, so as not to frighten or damage the fireflies.
Step 3. Catch the fireflies with a jar
In most cases, fireflies are kept in a clear jar, so use one directly to catch them. Move slowly, holding it in the air until a firefly flies inside. Then close it with the lid to prevent the insect from escaping.
Part 3 of 3: Caring for Fireflies
Step 1. Put the fireflies in a glass jar
If you plan to keep the fireflies you have caught, place them in a glass jar so you can see their light. Vacuum jars are an excellent option. Do not pierce the lid - the air could dry out too much and the firefly could end up injuring itself while trying to escape. Remember that these animals love humid spaces.
Keep a few fireflies at a time in a single container; this way they will have enough space to fly
Step 2. Create a habitat in the jar
Creating a natural environment will help keep fireflies healthy and alive. Place a small piece of apple and a handful of fresh herb in the bottom of the jar. The apple will increase the humidity of the air, while the grass will provide them with something to eat and to climb or hide on.
Step 3. Release the fireflies after a short time
While the idea of keeping them for a long time may be tempting, it is good to release them after a short time. Ideally you should do this before bedtime. If you decide to keep them overnight, be sure to release them the next morning. These insects need their natural habitat to survive and if they stay in a jar for more than a day, they risk dying.
