Indiana’s State Insect Is the Lightning Bug

I was today years old when I learned that Indiana has a State Insect. I know the cardinal is the state bird, and I know the State Flower is the peony, but I guess it never occurred to me that we would have a State Insect, too.

Wait, Indiana Has a State Insect?

I was excited to not only learn that we have one, but I was excited to learn that it's the lightning bug - or as some call it, the firefly. When my daughter was little, we would go in the backyard to catch the magnificent little creatures. Of course, we had a strict catch-and-release policy, and we never kept them.

Why the Lightning Bug Means So Much to Hoosiers

I taught her that she had to call them so they would let her catch them. There is nothing more precious in this world than a 4-year-old wandering in the backyard, gently (so as not to scare them away) calling out, "Heeeeeere lightning bug, lightning bug, lightning bug!" It is one of my favorite memories.

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Fun Facts About Indiana’s Official Firefly

Fireflies carry memories and magic for me, and no doubt many others. The insect, which is technically a beetle, was named the State Insect of Indiana in 2018 in honor of Indiana native and "Father of American Entomology," Thomas Say, according to Purdue University.

Say’s Firefly, <em>Pyractomena angulata</em>, became Indiana’s state insect when legislation proclaiming it as such was signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb on March 23, 2018. Thomas Say, who lived from 1787-1834, was an eminent naturalist who worked in New Harmony, Indiana in Posey County, and is considered the Father of American Entomology. - Purdue University

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How Fireflies Glow and Talk to Each Other

There are more than 2,000 species of fireflies around the globe, and they produce light through a chemical reaction called bioluminescence. These tiny creatures use special light-producing organs in their abdomens to communicate with one another, and each species uses its own unique flash pattern.

How to Make Your Backyard Firefly Friendly

Interested in creating a safe space for these luminous lovelies to thrive? Let your lawn grow a little taller, consider adding a water feature, and avoid using pesticides in and around your home. Then maybe go on a catch-and-release adventure. But, don't forget you have to call them!

Here's What to Plant to Attract Widlife to Your Garden

If you'd like to see more birds, butterflies, or even deer in your garden or yard, try planting these flowers, plants, or trees.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

These 5 Plants Can Help Repel Pest From Your Lawn and Garden

If you have 99 problems and skunks, gophers, rodents, ants, or mosquitoes in your yard are one of those problems, keep reading. We've got the scoop on five plants you can use to rid you of your unwanted visitors.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals