Bug Identifier
Common Firefly (Lampyrid)
Community identification

Common Firefly (Lampyrid)

Lampyridae (family)

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera, Family: Lampyridae
Size
5 mm to 25 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Moist, shaded environments such as woodlands, gardens, and near standing water or tall grass.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae are predatory, eating snails, slugs, and worms. Adults often do not eat at all or consume nectar and pollen.

Behavior Patterns

Known for bioluminescence used to attract mates or deter predators. Most active during summer evenings and can often be found resting on vertical surfaces during the day.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; they benefit the ecosystem by controlling garden pests like snails and slugs during their larval stage.