SOLD. Watercolor, gouache and gold leaf on a 20” birch circle. Fireflies wink brightly across the forest when the conditions are just right. They need moisture, undisturbed debris, and darkness so the males and females can signal each other for mating. Unfortunately, human developments often lead to wetland draining, “cleaning up” stumps and leaves, and light pollution. Firefly populations are also under threat from pesticides in their environment. We can help fireflies by not using chemicals in our yards and keeping our lights dimmed at night. As a BBC article explains (Briggs, Helen. “Light Pollution From Street Lamps Linked to Insect Loss.” BBC News, August 26, 2021.) Light pollution is a global issue. Streetlights and other artificial lighting can not only affect fireflies but can also misdirect moths and curtail the eating habits of caterpillars. Insect biodiversity loss can have a profound effect across ecosystems. As for fireflies, may their lights never go out.....