Name: Fireflies: Discover the Science & Conservation of Arizona’s Fireflies
Start: 2026-06-27T14:00:00-07:00
End: 2026-06-27T15:00:00-07:00
Location: Natural History Institute

$Fireflies: Discover the Science & Conservation of Arizona\u2019s Fireflies$

Ecologist Rachel Laura invites you to explore firefly ecology and learn about the variety of Arizona’s fireflies.
About this Event
Event Photos

Many people are surprised to learn that fireflies live in Arizona, but our state actually has at least 20 species of these fascinating insects! Ecologist Rachel Laura invites you to explore firefly ecology, learn about the variety of Arizona’s fireflies, and discover the special behaviors and life history that help them survive in the Southwest. Learn about current research on an endemic Arizona firefly and discover simple actions you can take to help conserve these enchanting creatures and the habitats they depend on.

Doors open at 1:30pm. The presentation starts at 2:00pm.

Please note that this event is on Saturday, June 27th, at the Natural History Institute.

*The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required. For those unable to attend in person, the talk will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel.

Rachel Laura is the Deputy Executive Director of Friends of the Verde River and a Certified Wildlife Biologist with expertise in species conservation, habitat restoration, and Endangered Species Act (ESA) policy. She has extensive experience leading species status assessments and collaborating with stakeholders to inform ESA decision-making, having previously worked as a biologist for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Rachel’s background also includes designing and implementing habitat restoration projects to improve riparian and upland ecosystems. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in firefly distribution and ecology in arid environments, her research focuses on conserving these unique species. As one of the few experts on Southwest fireflies, Rachel works at the intersection of science, policy, and conservation. In her free time Rachel enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and learning to play the cello. She lives in Flagstaff with her husband and their three kids.