I remember when I was little and I would look forward to when it got dark just so that I could catch fireflies. I saved a plastic container of them every year and saw how long I could keep them for. (In the grand scheme of things, that wasn’t the best idea) But I was always sad when I came into my room to see my “makeshift night light” and they were all dead. I was always so sad when I found out that they don’t survive very long. But that made me wonder: How long will they be around for?
Although firefly populations do face legitimate threats and certain species are undoubtedly in decline, there is no scientific evidence to support that we are the last generation to see them. They are part of the much larger and alarming trend of insect biodiversity loss and approximately 10% of all insect species are currently threatened with extinction, though other studies estimate much higher.
We, as a society, have been the main cause of their lesser numbers by inflicting light pollution, poor water quality, insecticide use, and climate change. Among these, climate and weather pattern are suspected to be the leading threat since their larvae depend on soil moisture for survival. The absence of their light is notable and sparks greater public urgency for their conversation.
Fireflies could disappear from many places within our lifetime if we were to make no changes in our ecosystems. That means future generations may never experience summer nights filled with their glow. BUT.. there is a way around it: Pick up your garbage, cut your grass, be careful how many pesticides you put on your grass and farms, and turn off your outside lights when you might not need them on. We can help this species to provide joy to your little ones once they get old enough to appreciate their light too!
