Common Eastern Firefly

Photinus pyralis, commonly known as the common eastern firefly or big dipper firefly and sometimes simply called a lightning bug, is a species of flying beetle and the most common firefly species in North America, typically found east of the Rocky Mountains. An organ on its abdomen produces its light, most noticeable around twilight in spring and summer, and males fly a characteristic J-shaped path, lighting on the upswing, while flashing to attract females perched on vegetation; the flashes are triggered by light-activated proteins rather than the rhythmic nerve impulses once assumed.