FAQ
Who is behind Atlanta Firefly Project?
This research project was created by Kelly Ridenhour, an ecology graduate researcher at the Odum School of Ecology at UGA and an Atlanta resident. Kelly used data as part of her MS research in integrative conservation and sustainability and graduated in May 2022. The Atlanta Firefly Project continues today and is facilitated by EcoReach at the UGA Odum School of Ecology. Sarah Lawrence, also an Atlanta resident, is the designer extraordinaire behind the beautiful Atlanta Firefly Project Logo.
Learn More about EcoReach
Contact the project at [email protected]
Learn More about Sarah Lawrence
Who can participate?
Anyone can participate! While the initial scope of this project is focused on the Atlanta area, if you live in another location you can still submit your information and spread the word! Sign-up here!
What is required to get involved?
Availability to spend about 30 minutes monitoring your yard on a nice evening. Ideally, we ask for twice in June and twice in July (on your own schedule) but if you cannot do that many or join the project late, that is OK! A smartphone with the internet is needed to submit the data.
Can I get involved in other ways? (photography, video, administrative volunteering, art, creative projects)
Yes, if you have ideas please contact us at [email protected]
How is this information being used?
The data is used for ecological research. For example, in 2021-2022 the observational data were analyzed along with aerial imagery of vegetation and light pollution to understand how land management influences the abundance of the big dipper firefly.
Can I participate if I do not have fireflies in my yard?
Yes! It is very important for individuals to submit information when they do not have fireflies at home. Sign-up here.
Can I participate if I do not live in a single-family home?
Yes! You can monitor any property you live on. If you do not have an individual yard, select the public space at your apartment complex or townhome. If you choose to submit the questionnaire asking for information from your HOA would be helpful. Sign-up here and watch the training video for how to submit information in more detail.
How many types of fireflies are in Atlanta?
Historical records show at least 29 species of fireflies in the Atlanta area at one point in time. We are unsure if all of these species are still in the Atlanta area today. For a great source of firefly information check out Lynn Faust’s firefly book here.
What species is Atlanta Firefly Project researching?
We are researching the common eastern firefly known as the Big Dipper Firefly (Photinus pyralis).
How will my email be used?
We only send a few emails a year including sending monitoring reminder emails in June and July and notifying you when research results or stickers and merchandise are available. If you would like to receive these emails, please sign-up! Otherwise, you will need to check back on this website for instructions or updates, or alternatively, follow us on Instagram.
What are fireflies and are they the same things as lightning bugs?
People around the world have many different names for fireflies! Lightning bug is another one of those names! Fireflies are actually beetles and all types of fireflies have bioluminescent qualities where they glow as larvae but some species lose the ability to light up as adults.
Where in Atlanta and what about about if I am outside of Atlanta?
You can submit data from anywhere and it is not just limited to Atlanta. The project began in Atlanta but is expanding and you can help spread the word about the project no matter where you live! Any data you do submit is still helpful.
How do I get my sticker?
If you were one of the original 500 people to sign-up in 2021you will be notified by email with a sticker pick-up location!