Where have all the fireflies gone?

I've been studying fireflies for many years and am the producer of Firefly FAQs.  Over the years I have notices fewer fireflies in some areas and have been receiving reports of dwendling numbers in other areas.  The question is, "Where have all the fireflies gone?"

With the current concern regarding global warming caused by an exploding populations and increased usage of fossile fuels, the burning and destruction of forests, and skyrocketing urbanization, one wonders to what degree these and related factors have to do with the disappearence of fireflies?

A related question is how many other species are dwindling in numbers due to changing environmental conditions caused by an exploding human population?  Also one wonders what can be done to save the planet and stop the destruction?

Part of the problem is that although we may notice the disappearence of fireflies, one may not notice the disappearence of thousands of other species, such as the many insects which are active between dusk and dawn.  In unpopulared, virgin winderness areas of the tropics and subtropics the night sky is filled with tons of tiny insects.  Yet when natural forest are destroyed and replaced with concrete jungles, the number of these midnight fliers drops dramatically -- at least that is what I imagine to be the case when seeing fewer and fewer moths and other nocturnal insects swarming around bright street and stadium lamps during summer months.  But what is really the nature of the loss when taken on a global scale?  No one knows for sure.

I would like to establish a mobile research station and travel about the country to research this matter, yet I have no funding for such a project.  Yet that is a dream.  Are there any rich benefactors who would like to contribute to such a project?  If so, please let me know.

In the mean time I'd like to hear from others who are concerned about how global warming or other changes may be effecting the environment.  Is there some immediate concern you have, a critical issue that you would like to address?  If so, please post a comment.  What is going on in your neck of the woods and have you noticed any decrease in the numbers of small animals, insects or other environmental impacts?

I would especially like to see photographs which might illustrate changes people have notices, such as mutations of animals.  It might be fun to post photos here showing evidence of clear cutting, pollution or fish kills.  Anything you might come across in this respect, please post a photograph or a link to where it may be found.

I would also be interested in receiving specimens of fireflies from other areas so I can observe and photograph them under a microscope.  These should be preserved in 70% alcohol.  I would like to obtain specimens of fireflies from all over the world, as well as firefly larvae.  So if you happen to be able to catch and collect any firefly specimens, please preserve them and send them to me.  Thanks.

I would also like to know what others are doing to help stop global warming and preserve the environment.  One thing I'm doing is trying to raise awareness.  As a graphic artist, designer, and photographer, I have produced a number of gift and apparel items related to fireflies as well as save the world and stop global warming promotions.  These creations may be used to express one's concern with respect to these critical issues and help raise awareness.

If you are also a creative person or naturalist and would like to share your insight or creations with everyone, please post a link to your site.  Over time I'm hoping others will share their concerns, opinions and expressions that a network will be created of like minds.  So please, share your thoughts and expressions.