Blink, Blink, Blink in Sync: Silent Fireworks

It’s June in Elmont, Tennessee in the Great Smoky Mountains and a crowd has gathered for the opportunity to witness fireflies communicating in a beautifully unique and unexplainable manner. But wait, these aren’t just regular backyard fireflies…these fireflies synchronize their sparkle. Most fireflies that synchronize their flash are found in Southeast Asia. Some species are in the United States. Synchronizing fireflies’ habitat within the United States includes Tennessee, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Arizona. The most spectacular display is found in the Great Smoky Mountains. You can catch a ride to the event on the shuttle in the town of Elkmont, Tennessee.

Fireflies are a magical part of childhood. Sadly, their numbers are diminishing. Light pollution disrupts their mating patterns. Parking lots and buildings have replaced their natural landscape. What can you do to help? Look for the recipe for home-grown fireflies at the end of the book.