26. Mai 2025, 17:04 Uhr | Lesezeit: 4 Minuten
Every year at the same time, some places in Germany shine in a very special light. Responsible for this are the fireflies, whose glowing bodies create a very special natural spectacle. Sunnytrips explains where you can observe the animals and which species of glowworms live here in Germany.
When the days get longer and warm summer nights spread across the country, you can observe a small natural wonder in some regions of Germany. This is when fireflies float through the twilight and bathe meadows and forests in a gentle light. But where can you best observe this fascinating spectacle - and when? You can find out here.
Overview
- What types of fireflies are there in Germany?
- When do fireflies appear?
- Where can you see fireflies?
- Why do fireflies glow?
What types of fireflies are there in Germany?
In fact, fireflies are not worms, but beetles. However, not all fireflies can fly and not all can glow. Only the males have wings - and even these are not always functional, depending on the species.
So if you see a glow on bushes, leaves or in meadows, it is most likely a female. If the points of light float through the air, they are the males of the small firefly or the short-winged firefly, because the male representatives of the large firefly do not have any glowing organs.
BILD Reisen: Discover the best hotels in Hesse now!
The fireflies most widespread in Germany are called:
- Little firefly (Lamprohiza splendidula), also known as the common firefly, St. John's beetle or St. John's worm
- Big firefly (Lampyris noctiluca), also called the Great Firefly or Great St. John's Firefly
- Short-winged firefly (Phosphaenus hemipterus)
Auch interessant: Die 3 beliebtesten Naturwunder Deutschlands
When do fireflies appear?
Fireflies are particularly active from June to August. They can be seen particularly often around June 24th, St. John's Day - which is why they are also called St. John's beetles in some regions.
During the day the animals are hardly noticeable. Their fascinating light show only begins as darkness falls and usually lasts until around midnight.
The safari insider tip in South Africa
10 spectacular photos from around the world
Where can you see fireflies?
It is unlikely that you will spot fireflies in the city, as a big city cannot create an ideal habitat for the small fireflies. In a city it is too bright for them - one could say that they are "blasted by light from morning to evening".
Fireflies prefer forest edges, meadows, bushes and near ponds, lakes, streams or rivers. They are particularly active on warm, windless evenings.
In principle, you can observe glowworms all over Germany - there are particularly many sightings in the southwest. But they have also been spotted in central Germany and even directly outside of Berlin. Maybe there is also a chance for Berlin city children to experience the magic of lighting live - without having to travel far.
Why do fireflies glow?
The glow is primarily used for communication - or more precisely: for finding a partner. It is created by a biochemical reaction in the abdomen. So not the entire beetle can glow, but only the rear, elongated body segment. Therefore it appears as if a small, glowing worm is crawling through the night.
Not all of the approximately 2,000 species of fireflies worldwide are able to glow. In some species only the females glow, in others both sexes glow. The signals themselves are different: some species flash, others emit a continuous glow.
Some fireflies use the glow signals of other species to their advantage: females of the genusPhoturismimic the flashing signals of females of other species to attract males - not to mate, but to eat them.
Essential Travel Planning Tips, Destinations, Shopping, and Lifestyle ResourcesWhether you're planning your next vacation, researching destinations, comparing travel costs, or looking for unique online stores, having reliable resources can make every decision easier. This guide highlights useful travel insights, money-saving tips, dining recommendations, and specialty websites worth exploring.
Smart Travel Planning and Budget Strategies
Successful trips start with proper preparation. Before booking, review these practical href="https://grandgoldman.com/blogs/travel/planning-tips">travel planning tips to avoid common mistakes and maximize your budget.
Travelers interested in resort vacations should learn the cheapest time for all-inclusive resorts and discover the most affordable countries for all-inclusive resorts.
If you're comparing options, explore whether all-inclusive vacations are cheaper than booking separately, understand how all-inclusive resorts generate revenue, and determine the ideal length of an all-inclusive stay.
Understanding All-Inclusive Resorts
Many travelers wonder about resort experiences. Learn about the various types of all-inclusive resorts, discover the advantages and drawbacks of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and see whether all-inclusive resorts are really boring.
You may also want to know whether resorts water down alcohol, what happens at adult-only all-inclusive resorts, and whether kids-free">Sandals Resorts are kid-free.
Dining Recommendations Around Europe
Food is often the highlight of travel. Discover the best restaurants in Córdoba, find a cheap restaurant in Madrid, enjoy local cuisine at a budget-friendly restaurant in Cudillero, explore the best restaurants in Budapest, and save money with recommendations for the best cheap restaurants in Iceland.
Unique Destinations and Cultural Insights
Travelers heading to Mexico may enjoy these clothing-optional beaches in Cancun. For those interested in history and social studies, this guide to South African apartheid history offers valuable context.
Travel Finance and Essential Resources
Reducing banking fees while abroad can significantly lower travel costs. Compare options for the best credit cards without foreign transaction fees.
Online Shopping, Business, and Lifestyle Websites
Beyond travel, several specialty websites provide useful products and services. Explore educational toys at Building Blocks Toy, Spanish business resources at Empresa España, and French business information through Entreprises France.
anime-toy.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anime fans can browse merchandise at jujutsu-kaisen-merch.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jujutsu-kaisen-merch.com/">Jujutsu Kaisen Merch, while leather enthusiasts may appreciate Leder Kaufen.
Creative services are available through Matrix Studios, while premium fashion shoppers can visit Pretium Victoriae. Gaming enthusiasts can discover retro-games.co" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retro entertainment at Retro Games.
Motorcycle riderace.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">riders may enjoy resources from RideRace, and kitchen product shoppers can explore innovative accessories at Walfos, with cutting edge compact computers at Mini PC.
Final Thoughts
From all-inclusive resort planning and European dining guides to financial travel tools and niche online stores, these resources provide valuable information for travelers, shoppers, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists looking to make informed decisions and enjoy better experiences.
