Course: Surveying for Flies

Flies (Diptera) are one of the most diverse and ecologically important groups of insects, yet they are frequently under-recorded in ecological surveys and conservation projects. From pollination and decomposition to nutrient cycling and natural pest regulation, flies provide vital ecosystem services across both urban and rural landscapes. This 90-minute webinar introduces the principles and practical approaches to surveying for flies, focusing on field techniques, habitat assessment, and biological recording methods used in ecological and conservation contexts.

We've teamed up with The Dipterists Forum to provide an accessible introduction to fly ecology and survey methodology, while highlighting the importance of Diptera recording for biodiversity monitoring and environmental management. Whether you are completely new to insect surveying or looking to broaden your ecological field skills, this webinar will provide a practical foundation for surveying flies in the field.

During this webinar, participants will explore:

• Planning Your Survey: Understanding legal considerations, landowner permissions, and the health, safety, and environmental risks associated with surveying for flies.
• Habitats and Ecology: Exploring the habitats used by flies and how ecological factors influence species presence, abundance, and survey timing.
• Trapping Methods: An introduction to common survey techniques, the fly families they are best suited to, and the advantages and limitations of different methods.
• Ethics and By-catch: Considering ethical approaches to insect surveying, minimising unintended captures, and reducing impacts on non-target species and habitats.
• Processing the Catch in the Field: Practical guidance on handling, sorting, storing, recording, and transporting specimens during fieldwork.

Whether you’re a student, naturalist, ecologist, conservation practitioner, biological recorder, or simply interested in insects and biodiversity, this webinar will provide a clear introduction to surveying for flies and help build confidence in undertaking field-based Diptera surveys.

The 90-minute event will consist of a 1-hour presentation followed by a Q&A with the tutor using questions provided by the live audience.

The presentations will be recorded and shared with those who booked alongside Q&A transcripts and relevant links, following the event via our e-learning platform.