Welcome to my webpage!

Why was the mother lightning bug unhappy? (see bottom of page for answer)

Photuris pennsylvanicus, or more commonly known as the Pennsylvania Firefly, is one of almost 2000 species of firefly. In North America fireflies fall into three main genera; the Photuris, Photinus, and the Pyractomena. The Pennsylvania Firefly falls into the Photuris genus. Learn more about the classification of the Pennsylvanian Firefly.
They are very common and range from the eastern U.S. to Kansas and Texas where they are found in meadows and open forests. Learn more about firefly habitat.

The adult’s elytra (hardened forewings that form a protective covering over flight wings) are dark brown with yellowish margins and oblique stripes. The head is partially covered by a pronotum (which is a plate that covers the upper middle portion, thorax, of the insect's body)  that is yellow around the sides and red in the middle. This specific species fly from early evening to midnight from July to August and emit a bright green light to attract a mate. Learn more about firefly adaptations.
Pennsylvania Fireflies lay spherical eggs singly or in groups in damp soil, around grass or moss, and hatch in about 4 weeks. Learn more about firefly reproduction.

Their Larvae feed at night in the grass on snails, slugs, earthworms, and cutworms. Their light isn’t visible unless turned over. Learn more about firefly nutrition and interactions with other species.

On to Classification!

 Answer: Because her children weren't very bright!

If you are interested in finding out about more organisms, visit www.MultipleOrganisms.net to expand your knowledge of the variety of creatures around you!

Visit my school's website at www.uwlax.edu

The banner of the meadow with glowing fireflies at the top of the page is courtesy of Zolt Levay.