The presentation covered the life cycle and habitat needs of fireflies, which are beetles with over 2,000 species worldwide and approximately 120 species in North America. Minnesota is believed to have about six main groups of fireflies, though research on the state's insect species remains limited. Fireflies go through multiple life stages—eggs laid in damp woods, larvae that feed on slugs and snails, pupae, and adults that live only 2-3 weeks and exist primarily to breed. The insects produce bioluminescence throughout most of their life stages, which serves as a warning to predators of their poisonous nature.

The speaker identified several major threats to firefly populations. Light pollution, habitat loss from urban and suburban development, and pesticide use are the primary concerns. Climate change and non-native earthworms that damage forest soil layers also threaten fireflies by destroying their food sources and habitats. Because fireflies disperse extremely slowly, habitat destruction can take decades—or may never—allow populations to recover in redeveloped areas.

Fireflies communicate through species-specific flash patterns that vary in color, timing, and shape. Males use these flashes to attract females, who evaluate and respond to the signals. The presentation noted a predatory behavior where certain female fireflies mimic the flashes of other species to lure and consume males, acquiring their defensive toxins in the process.

Beyond their ecological importance, fireflies have scientific and economic value. Their bioluminescence has inspired more efficient LED light bulb designs. Luciferin, the chemical fireflies produce, has been used in food safety testing to detect bacteria, in cancer research, and even in NASA sensors designed to detect life in space.

The speaker recommended practical conservation steps residents can take. These include reducing light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights, using motion-sensor lighting, and switching to warm-spectrum LED bulbs directed downward. Homeowners can also preserve habitat by maintaining "messy corners" with long grass, sticks, and logs where fireflies develop. Avoiding pesticides is equally important. Residents interested in formal recognition can certify their properties as firefly habitats through firefly.org.