What do Great Smoky Mountain National Park and Malaysian jungles have in common? Haven’t a twinkling of an idea? It’s the presence of synchronous fireflies! During the first weeks of June, an annual lightshow, put on by Mother Nature’s night-lights, illuminate areas of GSMNP. This year the non-profit organization Discover Life in America is holding a number of events for the public to experience this natural wonder and learn more about the mystery behind the synchronous fireflies.

“We know of 19 species of fireflies (actually they're a unique group of beetles) currently inhabiting the Park,” states park curator Adriean Mayor. “There are 12 species that "flash" and 7 species with no "flash".” This “flashing” phenomenon is caused by a chemical reaction in the fireflies’ lower abdominal organs called bioluminescence.

Now you might be wondering: Why don’t the fireflies in my backyard synchronize? What makes the fireflies in the park so special? All of your question and more will be answered by attending any of the following events:

On June 6 and 7, starting at 7:00 pm and ending at 11:00 pm, DLIA is holding a fund-raising event at Norton Creek Sanctuary near Gatlinburg, TN. With exclusive access to the property and a firefly expert on site, you will be able to learn the answers to your questions while enjoying the amazing display first hand. Food (heavy hors d’oeuvres) and drink (beer and wine) will be provided, so come out and enjoy this nighttime picnic with the fireflies! There will be a short walk to the site and be prepared for possible inclement weather. (Reservations required – space is very limited. Call 865.430.4756 for tickets! The cost is $75 per person.)