Catching Fireflies in Your Backyard

Suzy is always amazed at how the simple things get the most excitement out of the little ones... You buy a new, high tech toy (the one you are convinced they are going to LOVE) and the day is spent playing with your 10 year old kitchen broom. Did I mention the staying power of Tupperware?  Hours I tell you!

Well here is a little fun with nothing more than a mason jar...Didn't you love this as a kid?

Look for fireflies on the edge of wooded areas.
Check for fireflies near tall grasses and low hanging trees.
Spot fireflies near a flower or vegetable garden in your backyard.
 
Fireflies communicate using their flashing lights. If you want to catch one, you have to act like one. First, turn off your house lights—these may confuse fireflies and make them less likely to respond to light signals from other fireflies. Then take a flashlight outside. Never shine your flashlight directly at the fireflies or you'll will just scare them away.

If you are having trouble getting near the fireflies in your yard, imitate one of them by shining your flashlight directly up and down, or by repeating the light patterns you see them do.

Catch fireflies one at time using a net (or catching them in your hands), and place them in a clear jar with a pierced lid.  (you might want to add some grass or even a wet paper towel to keep them happy in there)

It is easier to catch fireflies by working in pairs with one person to hold the jar and one person to catch the fireflies.

Make sure you let them go after enjoying them for awhile! (Mom, they don't last more than 1-2 days a jar.  Don't want sad kiddos and even sadder fireflies!)

Have fun, ask mom and dad to make a fire so you can fill up on some smores and go hunting!