Synchronous Firefly vs Large Brown Lacewing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Synchronous Firefly Large Brown Lacewing
Scientific Name Photinus carolinus Drepanepteryx phalaenoides
Order Coleoptera Neuroptera
Family Lampyridae Hemerobiidae
Size 8-12 mm 18-28 mm wingspan
Habitat Mountains Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America Europe, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Synchronous Firefly

One of the few firefly species in North America that synchronizes its flashing patterns. Thousands flash in unison during mating season in the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Did You Know?

Their synchronized light displays in the Great Smoky Mountains attract thousands of visitors each year through a lottery system.

Large Brown Lacewing

The largest European brown lacewing with distinctively hooked wing tips. Resembles a dead leaf when at rest on branches.

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Did You Know?

Its hooked wing tips and brown mottling make it one of the best leaf mimics among lacewings.