Walter Zoo and IUCN SSC launch new Centre for Species Survival dedicated to fireflies
Walter Zoo, based in Switzerland, proudly joins the global network of Centres for Species Survival (CSS) in partnership with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), the world’s largest volunteer conservation‑science network.
The new CSS hosted by Walter Zoo will focus exclusively on fireflies (Lampyridae). These iconic bioluminescent insects are declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution. Despite their cultural, educational, and ecological value, fireflies remain underrepresented in conservation action—a gap this partnership aims to close.
“The IUCN SSC Firefly Specialist Group is delighted to be collaborating with the Walter Zoo,” said Sara Lewis, Co-Chair of the IUCN SSC Firefly Specialist Group. “This new centre will play a key role in enabling timely, science-based action to protect the most threatened firefly species around the world. Bringing together the SSC, our expert members, and the Walter Zoo will help us expand our reach, fill critical data gaps, and mobilize conservation action for these remarkable insects.”
Within the CSS framework, Walter Zoo will work with SSC Specialist Groups and partners to support IUCN Red List assessments, develop targeted conservation plans, advance guidance on reducing light pollution, and support ex-situ and in‑situ initiatives globally.
“Fireflies urgently need targeted conservation. Their fading lights point out large-scale ecological change. With our new Centre for Species Survival, we can pair rigorous conservation science with inspiring public engagement to protect these remarkable insects and their habitats,” said Dr. Karin Federer, CEO and Director of Walter Zoo.
In parallel with the CSS, Walter Zoo’s new conservation and education house will present the broader phenomenon of bioluminescence across taxa. This exhibition will connect visitors with the wonder of natural light and provide clear actions—from light‑smart behaviors to habitat protection—that help fireflies thrive.
With the establishment of the new Centre for Species Survival focusing on fireflies (Lampyridae), Walter Zoo strengthens its role as a catalyst for conservation and education, ensuring that the glow of these unique insects continues to inspire action for nature.
About Walter Zoo
Walter Zoo is a zoo-based conservation organization that follows a holistic approach to species conservation, combining ex-situ and in-situ efforts with a strong focus on education and sustainability. Through innovative environmental education programs, the Zoo engages visitors to better understand and protect biodiversity.
A flagship development is the new conservation and education house, which celebrates bioluminescence as a natural wonder while inspiring practical action, such as reducing light pollution.
About the IUCN Species Survival Commission
With over 11,500 members in 186 territories, the Species Survival Commission (SSC) is the largest of the seven expert commissions of IUCN and enables it to influence, encourage, and assist societies to conserve biodiversity by building knowledge on the status and threats to species, providing advice, developing policies and guidelines, facilitating conservation planning, and catalyzing conservation action. Learn more at iucn.org/ssc.
About the IUCN SSC Firefly Specialist Group
The Firefly Specialist Group is a global network of experts advancing the conservation of fireflies (Lampyridae). The Group supports IUCN Red List assessments, conservation planning, research, and outreach to safeguard fireflies and their habitats.
