Fireflies have surprised many Central Texans with their second appearance of the season. As KUT reports, while many of the friendly little light bulbs have usually disappeared come August, this year, the insects are still lighting the way into September.
So what’s the reason behind the bugs’ reappearance? It’s as obvious as you might suspect. Entomologist with Texas Agrilife Extension Service Wizzie Brown told KUT that recent warm and rainy weather conditions have mimicked those present earlier this spring, when the firefly population was at its peak. Unfortunately, the same applies to other insect populations like everyone’s favorite blood-sucker, mosquitoes.
Regardless, it’s the year of the firefly (in Central Texas, at least).
You want some great news to go with that good news? Brown also told KUT that just because there were more fireflies this year doesn’t mean there will be fewer next year. The bug’s future population will instead be determined by weather conditions this winter and early next year.