In April, fireflies, which are also known as lightning bugs, begin mating in the Great Smoky Mountains. They are so plentiful; you can see the flashing beetles as they fly around areas of the park. The males flash patterns as they fly to females who send a flash response while stationary. During part of the spring season, the fireflies seem to flash in unison, and this is a fun thing for children to see. In addition, Monarch butterflies migrating through the area are plentiful in the fall. The best time to see them is mid-morning to late afternoon.