Almost time for lightning bugs: Here's how to see rare blue ghost fireflies in Western NC
An annual event tied to one of Western North Carolina's natural wonders is coming back for the season. The Blue Ghost Firefly Twilight Tour will return May 14.
The tour's website describes the appearance of blue ghost fireflies as resembling "a tribe of fairies carrying blue candles through the forest." These unique, rare insects only live in a few areas, one of which is WNC's "Land of Waterfalls," Transylvania County.
Ghost fireflies are known for having a distinctive blue-green glow, unlike the yellow light you may be used to. The White Squirrel Institute says that blue ghosts are the only firefly species in North America that emits blue light, and are one of the smallest species in the world, measuring about a quarter of an inch long.
Here's what to know about the upcoming tours, and the fireflies they celebrate.
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Blue Ghost Firefly Tour 2024
The Twilight Tour takes place at the Cradle of Forestry in America, 11250 Pisgah Highway (U.S. 276) in Pisgah Forest. The program begins at 9 p.m. and runs until 10:30 p.m. General admission is $50, and youth tickets (ages 4-12) are $25.
Each program begins with a 9 p.m. educational presentation at the Cradle of Forestry outdoor amphitheater. After the presentation concludes, guests use the cover of darkness to explore paved trails through the forest in search of blue ghost fireflies.
The tours are self-guided, but team members are stationed at locations throughout the trails to provide further information. Advance ticket purchase is required to attend the tours, so make sure you book online.
When can you see blue ghost fireflies?
Blue ghost firefly mating season is shorter than seasons for more common fireflies. They are generally active in late May to early June, meaning that they are active for only a few short weeks of every year. Like other fireflies, they begin their dance after dark.
The White Squirrel Institute says that every night, males fly low over the forest floor, glowing with a steady blue light. The females, who do not fly, will glow with a fainter blue light from the ground. When a male sees a female, he lands near her and flashes his light in a specific pattern. If the female is interested, she will flash her light back. Once they have matched patterns, they will mate.
Another unique and stunning feature of the insects is that their blue-green glow remains lit for up to a minute.
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How rare are blue ghost fireflies?
There isn't much data on population numbers, but we know that ghost fireflies are a rare breed and unfortunately, they are only becoming rarer due to habitat loss and light pollution, which can disrupt the mating process. They are currently not on any endangered or protected species lists.
To help conserve these special insects, try reducing your use of artificial light and supporting conservation organizations. When searching for blue ghost fireflies, use a red light if you must use a flashlight. The Cradle of Forestry limits each night of their firefly events to 125 participants to keep their impact on the fireflies' natural habitat minimal.
How can I see blue ghost fireflies for free?
Tours like the one offered by the Cradle of Forestry are your best bet at spotting these rare bugs in their natural environment. However, blue ghost fireflies are found in various areas of the mountains in WNC. Here are some suggestions from the White Squirrel Institute on other areas you might be able to find some of these unique bugs:
DuPont State Recreational Forest – One of the most popular spots for viewing blue ghost fireflies. The forest offers several hiking trails that lead to streams and waterfalls where the fireflies live.
Pisgah National Forest – This large forest has many trails and camping areas, making it ideal for seeing fireflies.
Cataloochee Valley – This remote valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another location for viewing.
Chimney Rock State Park – This park is located about an hour’s drive from Brevard and is known for its scenic views and hiking trails. The blue ghost fireflies live along the trails in the park.
Make sure to check whether the area you're hoping to visit has a closing time that you'll need to observe before visiting.
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Blue Ghost Firefly Tour returns to Western NC's Cradle of Forestry
