Bokeh of bioluminescence or flashing light of Swarm Fireflies, Firefly flying in forest tw

Fireflies in Hillsboro

Our Firefly Journey

How one tiny species sparked a community movement.

1

National Recognition

Hillsboro was awarded a Science Discovery on Main Street Grant from the Simons Foundation & Main Street America, affirming that science and small towns belong together.

2

Discovery & Organization

Main Street formed a Science Discovery Committee, engaged an entomologist, and conducted field research at to the Hillsboro Country Club, where Photinus dimissus was identified.

3

Community Illuminated

Residents, businesses, schools, artists, and volunteers are launching hands-on science programming, public art, dark-sky initiatives, and community events inspired by our firefly discovery.

4

Glowing Forward

Glow Hillsboro continues to advance science education, habitat stewardship, and creative placemaking, proving that even the smallest light can shape a community’s future.

Meet Our Firefly

Photinus dimissus

A species discovered in Hillsboro
Vulnerability: Threatened by habitat loss and light pollution. Wingless females are especially at risk from mowing and landscape disturbance.
Size: 5-7mm; the size of a grain of rice
Bioluminescent: Produces light with no heat
Habitat: Associated with moist creekbeds, decomposing leaf litter, dense understory, and low light conditions.
Signature flash: Rapid double “twinkle” flashes about once per second
Females answer within 0.3–0.5 seconds with a single flash.
Nickname: PD - "The Texas Two-Step Flasher"

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Learn More about Photinus Dimissus

Want to spot PD in the wild? Peak activity is typically in June, around 9–10 PM. Look for its rapid double-flash “twinkle.”

Fireflies are more than a beautiful sight. They are a clear sign of a healthy ecosystem. Their presence reflects clean water, balanced habitats, and night skies that are still dark enough to support them.

While fireflies are declining in many places, Hillsboro continues to glow with their light. That is something special. Let us protect our land and water and preserve the natural beauty that makes our community shine.

Want to learn how to protect our fireflies and support the habitats they rely on? Explore simple steps you can take, along with helpful information about preserving dark skies and healthy landscapes in Hillsboro.

PROTECT OUR FIREFLIES

Our Community Partners