Saving Nocturnal Pollinators

Recent concerns about the disappearance of fireflies have made their way around social media, and for good reason. It is true, certain species of fireflies — or lightning bugs — are becoming endangered, and even if extinction may be a long way off, their habitats and ecosystems are certainly diminishing, and we are seeing less of them in our backyards during the summer. 

While this is of course a bummer for making summer night memories catching fireflies and watching the magical lights dance around above our heads, it’s also harmful for the ecosystem at large. And it isn’t just fireflies. Moths are also pollinators, lesser-known that bees, butterflies, and some birds. And moths are experiencing a similar threat to their habitats, causing chaos in the natural order. Protecting nocturnal pollinators is key to establishing a healthy ecosystem, a thriving garden, and even a magical summer for you and your family to experience. 

Are Fireflies Disappearing?

There have been many reports of fireflies disappearing before our very eyes. And the truth is, they are. Or, at least, their environment is, causing them to move elsewhere. Like many other wildlife, the combination of suburban development, pesticides and unnatural chemicals, light pollution, and environmental decline has had a direct negative effect on fireflies. The increase in light pollution is harmful because fireflies glow in order to attract mates and to populate. Artificial light distracts and confuses the beetles, preventing proper mating and reproduction. 

Habitat destruction, including the lack of native plants, shortened grass lawns, and pesticides have also taken away healthy ecosystems for fireflies to live and thrive in. Many have migrated to remote areas, though even those are becoming less common with continued development, and even tourism, causing some species to become endangered. 

Why Are Moths Attracted to Light?

The other famous nocturnal pollinator is seeing a similar fate as fireflies. Moths are, of course, well-known for being attracted to light. Every time a flashlight beam shines in the dark, a street light turns on, or a lantern sits on a patio table at night, moths flock. So, why are moths attracted to light? 

In short, they aren’t necessarily drawn to the light, but they are confused and disoriented by it. The general school of thought is that moths rely on the moonlight to tell them which way is up, so they can orient themselves properly to find food, mates, and homes. When extra light, especially bright unnatural light, is present, they tend to fly around erratically, nearly unable to control their bodies around lamps. 

How to Save Nocturnal Pollinators

The best way to protect fireflies and moths is to consider their habitats. Opt for less-bright lights, such as soft yellow fairy lights, or even candlelight when you’re outside. Reduce the amount of total night lights in your yard and garden, and be sure to shut all of them off when you go in for the night. This preserves the bugs’ sense of direction, ability to mate, and general comfort in their home.

Additionally, planting pollinator gardens and native flowers can help create healthy ecosystems for fireflies and moths. Just like your native gardens promote great ecosystems for other pollinators, flowers like coneflowers, butterfly weed, milkweed, and black-eyed Susans are excellent attractors for fireflies, moths, and other bugs that help the natural landscape. Keeping your lawn in check with best mowing practices, establishing healthy watering spots, and considering the total environment in your backyard are all great ways to save fireflies, moths, and other pollinators, promoting healthy and beautiful landscapes all summer long!

Turn the Lights Off, Keep the Fireflies On!

Everyone can do something to help prevent the disappearance of fireflies, moths, and other pollinators around us. While it is true that fireflies are starting to disappear, it is not a hopeless situation! Your own yard can be a pollinator sanctuary, by establishing pockets of native plants and grasses, creating sustainable landscaping, and of course, reducing the artificial light pollution around your home. 

Create summer memories and help the environment while you’re at it. Consider how a sustainable landscaping project or native garden might be right for your home, and how it can benefit the local firefly population. The local landscaping team at SunKissed Landscapes are big fans of fireflies, and we look forward to seeing them every summer! Contact us to learn how you can create your summer pollinator sanctuary.