Fly Research and Conservation Virtual Symposium with The Biological Recording Company

Join fly specialists, researchers, and conservationists and explore some of the latest research and conservation projects about true flies (Diptera).

This event will cover the latest advancements in fly ecology, taxonomy, and biodiversity, as well as strategies for conserving these vital yet often overlooked insects. The audience will have the opportunity to submit their questions to each of our speakers as part of live Q&A sessions.

Secure your place via the Biological Recording Company’s eventbrite ticket page.

This symposium will be joined by speakers from a range of fly research and conservation projects, including:

• The Aspen Hoverfly: From Research and Survey to Influencing Woodland Policy
• Mapping the UK’s Flat Flies

All presentations will be recorded and will be shared after the event, along with Q&A transcripts and useful links.

What are True Flies?

True flies (order Diptera) are insects with a single functional pair of wings, with the second pair modified into halteres that help with balance and agile flight. Ecologically, flies play major roles as pollinators, decomposers, and key links in food webs, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. Some species are also important disease vectors, while others help control pests by preying on or parasitising them. Beyond ecology, flies have practical applications in forensics (estimating time of death), medicine (maggot therapy for wound cleaning), and science, where fruit flies are classic model organisms in genetics.

Ticket pricing

• Professional Ticket (£30 + VAT): For those attending as part of their work or continuing professional development (CPD).
• Non-professional Ticket (Pay what you can – £1 minimum but suggested contribution £12.50): For non-professionals, including volunteer biological recorders, conservation volunteers, amateur naturalists, students, and anyone attending in a personal capacity.

This symposium is delivered without external funding, so ticket fees help cover the costs of organising and hosting the event. We want the event to be as accessible as possible, so we have introduced a flexible pricing model that allows attendees to choose the ticket that best reflects their circumstances.