Firefly

The firefly (ホタル, Hotaru) is a very common insect in the. It can be found at night, between 7pm and 4am, during the month of June, flying near fresh water (rivers and ponds). It is easy to find, giving off an eerie glow that calmly fades and strengthens. In Wild World, fireflies were represented by bright yellow 'blobs', the same color as the light given off by buildings. In City Folk, fireflies appear much more realistic.

Donating to the Museum
As with all insects in the series, the firefly can be donated to the Museum followed by a small talk by Blathers, the curator.

In Wild World
Despite reluctantly accepting a firefly, Blathers will still talk about it;

"I've heard tales of children unable to buy candles... Yes, these unfortunate souls are said to have studied by firefly light! Ugh. The mere thought of having a bug that close... Blech! So very vile... I'd rather read in darkness!"

The firefly can be found hovering over the pond in the first room of the Insect exhibit.

In City Folk
Upon donating to the museum, Blathers the curator will say;

"Many theories exist as to why fireflies can glow, but we've yet to find a clear answer, eh wot? The answer is not nearly so relevant as the fact they are bugs, and therefore wretched."

It can be found hovering over the small pond to the bottom-left in the bottom terrace, occasionally.

In New Leaf
After being donated to the museum, the firefly can be found periodically hovering over a small pond in the first room of the insect exhibit. The exhibit has this to say about the firefly:

"Both male and female fireflies are capable of producing light from their lower abdomens. This light isn't the same as the light from a lightbulb, though, and isn't hot when you touch it. Fireflies can actually glow when in the egg and larval stages, but that light is comparatively weaker."

Encyclopedia Information
When the player has caught the firefly, they can find information about the insect in the bug menu. Below is the information regarding the firefly:

Further Information
The lampyridae, colloquially known as the firefly or lightning bug, is an insect most notable for its bioluminescence. In this regard it is similar to the jellyfish. Oddly enough, there are many species that do not produce light at all.