Chennai: Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, create a stunning spectacle in Tamil Nadu’s forests, particularly in areas like the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR). These bioluminescent beetles, belonging to the Lampyridae family, emit yellowish-green light through a chemical reaction in their abdomens, especially during the monsoon season (October to December).
In ATR, millions of synchronous fireflies have been observed illuminating the forests, with their coordinated flashing patterns starting from one tree and spreading across the landscape, resembling a magical, wave-like display. This phenomenon, captured in rare footage by filmmaker Sriram Murali, is most vibrant in pristine, undisturbed areas with minimal light pollution, such as the Manambolly and Ulandy forest ranges.
The presence of fireflies is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, but their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and artificial lighting, which disrupts their mating communication. In Kodaikanal’s Palani Hills, firefly sightings have become rarer over the past few decades due to increased urbanization and light pollution.
Conservation efforts in ATR, supported by the Forest Department and researchers, aim to protect these insects by studying their ecology and reducing human-induced disturbances like night tourism and vehicle movement. The firefly season peaks post-monsoon, particularly in late October and November, when the forests transform into a glowing wonderland.
