So my observations. I have seen these in Kneeland (near Arcata, CA) back in the 80's, relatively common compared to my recent sighting below. Previous observation of bioluminescence displayed in these guys after a rain was shared by me. Found in second growth redwood habitat in groups of dozens, however, sightings were localized to two specific areas, not present everywhere in redwood habitat. Displayed bioluminescence only in certain season (fall) and not every season. only had two sightings total in 10 years of looking, but when I did, there were dozens.

Reason I'm writing this however is I had a sighting of one of these guys in Sedona, AZ (very close to picture, left it alone, so can't do a part by part comparison). There was only one, we observed it light up for over a 30 minute period, it was travelling at same time. Sighted 9/21/08 near Vultee Arch. First sighting in 35 years of exploring this area.

Amazing little things. i just found one today. i thought i was crazy when i saw it on the ground glowing. looks just like the picture, 'cept it was rolled up in a ball. never seen one in my life befor now.

thanks for the hint Jim
looking at Category:Lampyridae in the wikimedia, i see one that looks correct (Lampyris noctiluca) http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Lampyris_noctiluca
but i do not see any references to it being in the pacific north west
& i have lots of them in my yard

Dick

Strever... would you like to post this excellent picture on the World Cantharoidea website? let me know...

http://mycantharoidea.biosci.arizona.edu

This is either the larva or adult female of Pterotus obscuripennis, apparently a relatively common, but seldom seen species found in the Pacific states.

This is a larva of P obscuripennis, not the adult female; the latter is white and has tarsal claws rather than tarsunguli

Please say a little about yourself (on your personal profile page is fine) so we'll know how you know. Maybe just an active link to your Web site would suffice: http://mycantharoidea.biosci.arizona.edu