The Wondrous World of Fireflies

Illustrated talk, presented September 8, 2024 by Dr. Sara Lewis, Professor of Biology emerita Tufts University

Hosted by HLFM director Pierce Rafferty

Fireflies are surely among our greatest ambassadors for Earth’s natural magic. For centuries their ethereal beauty has sparked wonder and inspired poets, artists, and children of all ages. Yet they hold so many mysteries! Hear where they got their bright lights, explore their remarkable lifestyles, learn about human activities that put fireflies at risk, and find out what you can do to help protect these dazzling creatures.

Dr. Sara Lewis is a biologist and professor emerita at Tufts who has spent the past thirty years studying firefly behavior, ecology, and evolution. She currently coordinates global firefly conservation efforts as co-chair of the IUCN Firefly Specialist Group. In addition to writing numerous scientific articles, Prof. Lewis has given a TED talk and has written popular articles for Scientific American, Undark, CNN, The Guardian, and National Wildlife. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and BBC, along with numerous radio shows and podcasts. She is also the author of Silent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies, an entertaining and highly accessible journey into their luminous lives.