Nearly 30 firefly species across the United States and Canada haven’t been officially documented in a decade or more, leaving researchers uncertain as to whether they are in danger of extinction or simply overlooked. Until more targeted surveys are conducted, we can’t be sure what the true status of each of these “lost” species is. To help spur rediscovery efforts, we’re highlighting six fireflies in need of rediscovery, all of which should be identifiable by their physical features, locations, and, in some cases, flash patterns. Each of these species is endemic to a single state, spanning California, Florida, New York, and North Dakota. If you’re in one of these states, can you help us look for these species, and report your efforts to the Firefly Atlas?
