The almost unnaturally bright light of the Glow-worm has puzzled, charmed and fascinated generations of poets, artists, scientists and nature lovers. But now, this enigmatic species is in decline and under threat.

This book describes the life of Lampyris noctiluca, how it feeds, grows, defends itself and breeds; its natural enemies, its evolution, and how and why it produces that remarkable and vivid light. Details of Glow-worm habitat, ecology and conservation are also considered. The closing chapters look at some of the questions still waiting to be answered, and give practical advice on how the reader may discover Glow-worms for themselves.

By keeping technical jargon to a minimum while maintaining scientific accuracy, this richly illustrated book will appeal to everyone – from professional researchers, amateur entomologists and wildlife enthusiasts to the person simply noticing a bright green glow when walking in the countryside at night and wanting to know more about the fascinating insect that creates it.