How to Attract Lightning Bugs

Eliminate the use of harsh pesticides. Chemicals that deter other pests will also deter lightning bugs.

Allow your grass to grow a little taller. Fireflies rest on tall grass, which is why you will often see them in open meadows at night. If you do not want to let your entire lawn grow taller, select at least one patch of grass on the edge of your lawn to grow as a firefly habitat. Tall grass will also attract other insects and collect pollen, both of which are food sources for the bugs. They also like moisture, so if you can select a patch of grass near a stream or swamp, it is even better.

Turn off the outdoor lights. If you have bright house lights that shine out into your yard, you probably won't attract lightning bugs. The OSU Extension explains that light interferes with the lightning bug's signal and that the degree of light around them determines when they will light up.

Attract a male firefly, also known as a "Big Dipper," by using a pen light. To do this effectively, you must flash the pen light within two seconds of the lightning bug's flash when he is near you. You could also try flashing the pen light on a dark summer night, just to see if you can lure any bugs from a distance.