While some species tend to show off their flashes just prior to sunset, others prefer to wait until the sun has set. There are species that show their flashing for hours at a time while others only flash their signals for around thirty minutes. Even more amazing is the fact that each species only flash their signals while within their specific habitat. While there are other bioluminescent species of insect, the fireflies are the only insect that are capable of flashing their lights as a means of signaling. Predators of fireflies include frogs, spiders and some birds.
Studies indicate that the firefly is quite a bitter meal for predators.
It is believed this could be another function of their flashing signals. In some instances they may be used to warn predators before they attack or to warn others of their species of the presence of danger. The firefly is a carnivorous insect that eats other insects and in some cases has been observed eating those in their species as well as other species of fireflies. Inc. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site. PageWise hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, and user agrees that all such use is at its own risk.