PA’s Synchronous Firefly Show

Synchronous fireflies light up the night sky each year in Allegheny National Forest.

Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to synchronous fireflies?

Each summer, Pennsylvania's Allegheny National Forest lights up with these mesmerizing, coordinated flashes. Photinus carolinus is the species of firefly (a.k.a. lightening bug,) that puts on the show. The males somehow time their flashes to attract mates.

A group of campers first observed the phenomenon in the Allegheny National Forest in 2011. Scientists came the next year and confirmed that there were indeed synchronous fireflies here in PA. Before that, scientists thought synchronous fireflies only lived in the Great Smoky Mountains.

The best time to witness this natural light show is from late June through early July, coinciding with the fireflies' mating season. During this period, the Pennsylvania Firefly Festival is held in Forest County, offering guided tours and educational programs. The fireflies live along the Tionesta Creek and are easy to see if you camp along the creek.

I camped in the Allegheny National Forest last year with my husband, and we were delighted to see the fireflies light up the night sky. They start flashing right around dusk and go for hours. It was a challenge to take photos, but my Olympus Tough camera was up for it, and I got a few decent photos.

To experience this enchanting event, plan a visit to the Allegheny National Forest during the peak viewing season. Make sure you have a red light or headlamp to minimize light pollution and make it easier to see the fireflies.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of one of Pennsylvania’s great forests.