Synchronous Fireflies

For two weeks in mid-June the Smokies play host to a sight that can only be seen one other place in the world: synchronous fireflies. The synchronous firefly is one of fourteen species that live in the park and they are the only American species that can synchronously flash their bioluminescence. Lightning bugs are beetles, they are one of the many species in the world that combines internal chemicals with oxygen to produce their own light. This bioluminescence is used to attract mates. Most of the time this light show is completely random but during this time in June these fireflies blink on and off in unison with each other.

Scientist are not sure why these fireflies blink the way that they do. It is thought that due to the mating dance involved with the flashing, it is partially due to the competition amongst the males. It may be that the males stand a better chance of being seen by the females if they all light up at the same time. Either way and what ever the reason, this is a true marvel of nature and the only other place it occurs is in Asia.

If you are planning on viewing the light show, here are a few things to keep in mind. You are going to be in the dark in the national park. There are no lights and you should only bring a flashlight that has been covered by red or blue cellophane or a red or blue filter. You also maybe out in the elements for a while so watch the weather and dress accordingly. Because you will be out for a while take a chair with you so you have a place to sit in between periods of synchronicity.