Indiana's State Insect is a mesmerizing creature, especially for children. The Firefly is known for giving off a flash of light and creating some pretty light shows at night. However, the Firefly and its light show is facing extinction.

Fireflies, also known as Lightning Bugs, have been captivating to us since we were children. We all have tried to catch one in the night sky and put it in a jar with holes in the lid at least once. Now, with them on the brink of extinction, it's time for us to help save the existing population so that future generations can experience the beauty that is the Firefly.

Eastern firefly (Photinus pyralis) flying
Getty Images/iStockphoto
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According to RTV6 in Indianapolis,

While researchers have not yet completed empirical studies about the number of fireflies throughout the country, organizations like the Firefly Conservation and Research Group say the population of the insects throughout the country is plummeting.

The Firefly Conservation and Research Group says that the loss of natural habitat, pesticides and artificial lighting are contributing to the population loss of Fireflies.

Light pollution (brightening of the night sky caused by street lights and other man-made sources), has been messing with the Firefly's chemical cycle., as they rely on certain chemical reactions in their bodies that helps them find mates.

Researchers believe that there are a few things you can do to possibly help prevent Fireflies from disappearing. According to firefly.org, you can follow these steps to help keep our summer nights a little brighter and magical.

  • Turn off outside lights at night
  • Let logs and natural litter accumulate
  • Create water features in your landscaping
  • Avoid the use of pesticides, especially lawn chemicals
  • Use natural fertilizers
  • Don't over-mow your lawn
  • Plant native trees
  • Do not introduce earth worms to your yard

Here's to hoping that Indiana's State Insect continues to light up the night sky for many years to come.

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