How North Dakotans Can Attract Fireflies To Their Yards

Lemonade, swimming pools, hopscotch, laughter --these are all signs of summer.

There is one thing I remember from childhood, that I'm not sure I see too much of anymore.

I grew up in Illinois, where every summer evening the neighborhood kids would run outside and just for a glimpse of this one thing.

Fireflies In North Dakota

Of course, I'm talking about fireflies. How fun was it running around, trying to catch those little bugs in the air and fill up a little jar with their lightening magic.

Sadly, it's much more difficult to see this magic in the state of North Dakota. You would think with all of the open air and lack of trees we'd have a better view of them.

According to World Population Review, fireflies are actually pretty rare in North Dakota.

The source says that we only have 1-9 species of fireflies in the state. When you compare that to other states you see places like Texas have as many as 53 species of the insect.

If you do want to try to see a firefly, the best place to look is where there is moisture and vegetation.

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How to Attract Fireflies

According to Garden for Wildlife, if you want to see some fireflies in North Dakota, you're going to have to work for it a little bit.

Here are a few things you can do.

1. Plant Away!

If you want to lure some fireflies into your backyard, you should load up on plants. Yep, plant as much in your garden as you can, according to

2. Leave Leaves In Your Yard

The source says leaves often have larvae on things like leaves and logs. Leave them there so they can hatch.

3. Eliminate Outdoor Lighting

If you want to be able to see and attract the fireflies, you need to cut the lights. Too much light disrupts the lights they use to communicate with each other.

4. Pine Trees

The source says fireflies love pine trees because they provide a dark safe space for them to rest during the day.

5. Add Water

Because fireflies love moisture, adding a moving water feature will help you get some lightning bug into your yard.