Why flies matter, with Dr Erica McAlister

Have you ever looked at a fly seemingly trying but failing to find its way out of an open window and wondered why it can’t figure it out? Well, if so, then you’re not alone! To unravel the mystery and learn why it’s time we changed how we think about flies, we went to the Natural History Museum in London to meet Dr Erica McAlister, Principal Curator of Diptera and Siphonaptera – that's flies and fleas. Flies are probably the wild animal that you see more than any other. And yet how much do you know about them? Erica takes us on a tour behind the scenes at the museum, and along the way, shares her passion for these marvellous creatures. Trust us, you’ll never think of flies in the same way again. You can follow Erica on Instagram here: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ericamcalister⁠/ Photo: Paul McGuinness And to get more great content from BBC Wildlife, visit our website: ⁠https://www.discoverwildlife.com⁠ BBC Wildlife is the world’s longest-running and most popular nature magazine. This episode was hosted by Paul McGuinness and produced by Lewis Dobbs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices