How to Catch Fireflies

Catching fireflies on a warm summer evening is nothing but fun. All you need is a dark field or forest, a flashlight and a jar!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flashlight
• Clear jar with a pierced lid

Where to Find Fireflies

1. Look for fireflies on the edge of wooded areas and in fields and meadows.
2. Check for fireflies near tall grasses and low hanging trees.
3. Spot fireflies near a flower or vegetable garden in your backyard.

Catch Fireflies in Your Backyard

4. Reduce the amount of light coming from your house by turning off all indoor and outdoor lights.
5. Copy the pattern of a firefly by shining a flashlight directly up and down.
6. Catch fireflies one at time using a net, and place them in a clear jar with a pierced lid.
7. Release the fireflies back into nature after enjoying them for a short while. If you keep them in the container for more than two days, they probably will die.

Tips & Warnings

• It is easier to catch fireflies by working in pairs with one person to hold the jar and one person to catch the fireflies.
• Never shine your flashlight directly at the fireflies or you'll will just scare them away.