Insect identifier · Often confused insects
How to identify a Firefly
Lampyridae
· Also called lightning bug
People search “firefly” because it looks like something that bites. Firefly (Lampyridae) does not bite or sting people. Also called lightning bug.
The blink in the yard is not a biter.
What does a firefly look like?
Firefly is About 8–15 mm, soft. Colors: black, yellow, brown. Marks: Soft wing covers; Light-producing abdomen; Slow flight at dusk.
Firefly is About 8–15 mm, soft. Colors: black, yellow, brown. Marks: Soft wing covers; Light-producing abdomen; Slow flight at dusk.
Identification marks
- Soft wing covers
- Light-producing abdomen
- Slow flight at dusk
Size: About 8–15 mm, soft
Colors: black, yellow, brown
Where: outdoor
Firefly vs Blister beetle
A flash at dusk = firefly. A soft gray beetle that blisters if crushed = blister beetle.
- Blister beetle identification (Epicauta spp.)
- Soldier beetle identification (Chauliognathus pensylvanicus)
Range and season
Active early summer evenings. Places: yard, field. The flashing beetle. Does not bite or sting.
Lawns and field edges in early summer.
The flashing beetle. Does not bite or sting.
Early summer evenings
Common questions
Do lightning bugs bite?
No.