Fireflies under threat from habitat loss, pesticides and light pollution

There are over 2,000 species of the beloved insects but experts say: 'If people want fireflies in the future we need to look at this'

The dance of lights emanating from fireflies is among the most spectacular nocturnal sights in the natural world but experts have warned certain species may be at risk of extinction.

Amid a range of threats, an academic survey of firefly experts from around the world found that habitat loss is considered the heaviest pressure on the insects, which include more than 2,000 species. Pesticide spraying and the use of artificial lights at night are the other leading threats to the creatures, which are in the beetle family.