Flies are crucial to global ecosystems, with billions migrating thousands of miles each spring. These journeys can see them begin life in Iran and conclude it in the UK, or travel seasonally from India to regions including Mongolia, China, and Siberia.
Many insects commonly assumed to be bees are, in fact, bee-mimicking hoverflies. Research indicates that over half of the 108 fly families found in the British Isles include pollinator species. Even biting midges are known to pollinate the plant used to make chocolate.
Beyond pollination, fly larvae contribute to the environment by recycling organic waste and preying on species that damage flowers and crops. For example, punk fly larvae consume oak processionary moths, which can defoliate oak trees and cause health issues in humans. In the US, a species of ant-decapitating Phoridae has been deployed to control invasive fire ants.