New Yorkers are experiencing a significant increase in firefly sightings due to an unusually rainy spring creating ideal conditions for firefly larvae. The rainfall provided moist soil that facilitated the development of juvenile fireflies into adults. As a result, walks at dusk have become enchanting displays of flashing lights from the Big Dipper firefly. However, despite the temporary increase, firefly populations are still in decline overall and face challenges from urban threats like pesticides and light pollution.
New Yorkers across all five boroughs are reporting a serious uptick in the number of fireflies lighting up our humid summer nights and, yes, it's very real.
The near-constant showers created ideal soggy conditions for firefly larvae, who thrive in moist soil rich with snails, slugs and other tasty morsels.
Dr. Jessica Ware explained that the extra moisture is really good for the juvenile fireflies, who develop into adults that are moving around and flashing.
Urban fireflies face real threats, from pesticides to light pollution, which can throw off their carefully choreographed light displays.
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