Warning for New Yorkers: ‘Please Don’t Kill’ This Insect

The warm nights of a New York summer is the perfect time to remind local residents about one of our most beloved insects.

While it seems like New Yorkers are constantly grappling with invasive species ranging from beautiful but dangerous trees to destructive caterpillars, it can be helpful to take some time to focus on beneficial plants and animals as well.

"Please Don't Kill" this New York Insect

"Please don’t kill these insects if you see them in your yard or on your plants", began a recent post on Facebook (below). What might be the most interesting fact about the species is the help they can provide before they grow their wings.

Fireflies in New York State

While the bug might be hard to identify in the light of day, its identity becomes obvious once the sun sets at night. Though fireflies can provide multiple benefits (including adding wonder to your backyard), firefly larvae are credited with helping New York's ecosystem more than their insect counterparts.

Benefits of New York Fireflies

Alabama A&M and Auburn Universities Extension reports that carnivorous firefly larvae can help keep snail and slug populations under control, while adult fireflies may instead help with pollination, as many will feed on local blooms. Unfortunately, populations are shrinking.

Read More: Why You Are Seeing Fewer Fireflies in New York

Recent reports have shown that nearly 15% of firefly species are facing the threat of extinction. While major contributors to the decline include large-scale construction and destruction of habitats, every proactive step by New York residents can be helpful.

Get our free mobile app

Experts recommend several tactics for encouraging firefly populations, including leaving leaf litter or tall grass areas on properties, avoiding pesticides (which can kill insects and larva), and avoiding using exterior lights during mating season.