Lightning bugs are winged Beatles of the Lampyridae family with over 2,000 species world wide. They are nocturnal using their ability to produce an intermittent light to attract mates. They have a dedicated organ under their abdomems where the light is made by combining the chemical Luciferin with oxygen.
Eggs are deposited in the ground. The larvae feed on worms and slugs by injecting them with a numbing fluid. Adults feed on nectar or pollen as well as worms. Some adults do not eat at all.
photo from ... nationalgeographic.com
Video from last night in my yard.