Firefly vs. Lightning Bug: Is There a Difference Between the Two?

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Yeti makes some phone calls but now he’s curious to know what these lightning bugs are all about so he does some googling.

‘When you see a flashing insect in your backyard, do you call it a firefly or a lightning bug? And have you ever wondered if those names refer to two different insects?

Despite their unique names, lightning bugs and fireflies are actually the exact same thing: a family of flying beetles that communicate through bioluminescent flashes. However, there is a reason for the differing terms—and it all comes down to where you live.

Are fireflies different from lightning bugs?

Again, lightning bugs and fireflies are the exact same insect. Adding another layer of confusion, they aren’t even flies at all—as members of the Lampyridae family, the bugs are technically winged beetles. 

Why do they have two different names?

The terms “firefly” and “lightning bug” are the result of distinct regional dialects—and the one you use might actually tell you more about yourself than the insects. 

Researchers from the University of Cambridge asked 10,000 Americans from around the country this question: “What do you call the insect that flies around in the summer and has a rear section that glows in the dark?” The results showed pretty clear differences in certain parts of the United States.

Roughly 40% of respondents used both terms interchangeably, 30% said “firefly,” and the remaining 30% said “lightning bug.” “Firefly” was most popular in the western half of the country, while “lightning bug” dominated parts of the Midwest, the South, and the Mid-Atlantic. The terms were largely interchangeable around that region, including on the East Coast and in Texas. (Two people said they use the term “peenie wallie”—we can’t explain that one, either.)

Another researcher later found that using “lightning bug” is more common in parts of the country where lightning strikes are more frequent. So although there’s no difference in the bugs themselves, there is a difference between the way we talk in certain places.’ (Source)

Yeti is totally fascinated learning about these lightning bugs, or fireflies like some people call it. He decides to look for more articles. As he is searching for more to read he gets a phone call from Odus who won’t be able to join them. Maybe the next time they do something he will be available.

Let’s continue - Fun Facts About Fireflies

Start at the beginning – Tiffi learns all about lightning bugs