There are few natural phenomena that can match the ethereal beauty of a lightning bug. These lovely little creatures are known as thunderflies because their appearance in the summer evenings is most often witnessed after a thunderstorm. These insects, also called lightening bugs, fireflies, or lightning flies, have an unusual mating ritual they use to attract their potential mates. Most species of lightning bugs produce a yellow light which they flash periodically so that other members of their species will be able to see them. The striking blue color with which we associate these gentle creatures is caused by the light being refracted through a concave surface beneath their exoskeleton. Read on for more information about these amazing little creatures and some of the most beautiful photos you will ever see!
What Are Thunderflies?
Lightning bugs are a type of flying insect that produce a flash of light as a mating call. They are also known as fireflies or lightning flies. There are more than 2000 species of lightning bugs, and most are found in warm climates. Lightning bugs are not actually flies, but they are in the same insect family as flies (the order Diptera). Lightning bugs are different from other types of insects that glow in the dark, such as certain types of beetles and moths. Lightning bugs have large compound eyes that allow them to see a long way, even at night. They have light-emitting organs near their abdomen that are connected to the wings by veins. These organs can produce different colours of light, including green, yellow, and red.
Why Are They Called Thunderflies?
The term “thunderflies” may sound like it describes a type of insect, but it’s actually the name given to the delicate little creatures we call lightning bugs. This is because spring and summer thunderstorms are the only times these insects are likely to be seen by humans. These insects are largely nocturnal and only come out after a storm in order to mate. Females prefer to mate with males that have recently been struck by lightning, as this gives them a boost of energy. This energy allows males to remain healthy longer, which in turn gives them enough time to mate with many females.
8 Breathtaking Photos of Thunderflies
The beauty of a lightning bug can be seen in the multitude of colors and shapes they possess. While most species produce a yellow light, others produce green, blue, and even ultraviolet light. The intention behind these different colors is still an ongoing debate amongst experts. Some believe that the colors are used to communicate with potential mates, while others believe that they are meant to ward off predators. Whatever the case may be, the range of colors can be seen below in these stunning photos of lightning bugs! Golden Harvest - This photo is of a golden harvest (Pyractomena borealis) looking for a mate. This particular species of lightning bug is the largest of all the fireflies. Their mating season lasts from mid-April to June. Blue Wing - This is an image of a blue wing (P. furcata) firefly. The glowing blue light that they produce is one of the most beautiful colors in nature. Their mating season lasts from mid-May to late June. Green Firefly - The green firefly (Pyractomena viridula) is one of the many species of fireflies that are green. Its mating season lasts from mid-May to the beginning of July.
6 Fascinating Facts About Lightning Bugs
- People of all ages love lightning bugs. - Lightning bugs are actually beneficial to humans. - There are other insects that glow in the dark besides lightning bugs. - Lightning bugs are also edible. - There are non-insect animals that glow in the dark.
6 Otherworldly Photographs of Thunderflies
The following photos of lightning bugs are some of the most otherworldly you will ever see. Each image captures the unique beauty of these gentle creatures that so many people have come to adore. Fireflies - These are fireflies (Photinus carolinus) mating in a field. They are commonly mistaken for lightning bugs, but are actually a type of beetle. Fireflies prefer to mate in large groups, which is why you see so many of them together in this photo. Bioluminescence - This is a close-up photo of a firefly (Photinus sp.) after it has been caught and put inside a jar. It is glowing thanks to the bioluminescence that is present in all fireflies. Multi-Colored Fireflies - These are multi-colored fireflies (Photuris versicolor) mating in a bucket. Fireflies have a variety of mating calls, and each species has a unique color. Hummingbird - This is a hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) with glowing feathers. Hummingbirds are known to eat insects in addition to drinking nectar, and may have glowing feathers to help them hunt at night. Thunderflies
2 Bonus Photos of Fireflies
The following are two stunning photos of lightning bugs that were too amazing to leave out! Firefly - This is a close-up photo of a firefly (Photinus sp.) on a leaf with a drop of water on it. Fireflies like to mate near water, as this increases the amount of insects around for them to eat. Firefly - This is an image of a firefly (Photinus sp.) that has just been caught. Fireflies are non-aggressive and will not sting you, but they do produce a chemical that tastes bad. This is why people who handle a lot of fireflies often have a bitter taste in their mouth. This is harmless though and will go away after a few hours.
Conclusion
These amazing little insects are a wonder to behold. Their beauty is not only found in the glowing lights they emit, but also in the fact that they survive in all sorts of weather conditions. Their ability to thrive even in the harshest of conditions is a testament to the strength and resiliency of these tiny creatures. These gentle insects are beloved by many people around the world, and their beauty is only matched by their kindness. As you can see from these glowing photos, lightning bugs are truly a sight to behold.
This article is provided by https://www.goodgardn.co.uk/blogs/thunder-flies
