Earthworms are arguably our most vital animal. They're quite funny too. (This one has been added to the podcast for a second time to be used in Derby City as part of their Wildlife Festival.)

With many thanks to Nicky Scott, aka Dr Compost,

Food Waste Educator, Community Compost Expert

Dr Compost | Growing Devon Schools

"I may have trained as an agronomist but I learned something new about earthworms today - listen in!" John Meadley

annabel@annabelross.com

www.messagesfromthewild.com

Illustrations by Annabazyl www.fiverr.com/annabazyl

Our largest ant species explains how vital ants are to our survival, despite his seemingly lazy life, he manages to make the effort.

With many thanks to Professor Adam Hart, Entomologist & Professor of Science Communication, University of Gloucestershire Adam Hart

And thank you to Gregory Ovenden for his ant recordings in this episode: http://www.thesoundfarmer.com

This one comes from the collection I made for The Lost Gardens of Heligan.

annabel@annabelross.com

www.messagesfromthewild.com

Vital to our existence and yet maggots have never been a very popular creature but, Dr Erica McAlister makes this particular maggot seem almost adorable.

With many thanks to Dr Erica McAlister, Entomologist, Senior Curator at the Natural History Museum, Author, Presenter @ericamcalister

This one comes from the collection I made for The Lost Gardens of Heligan.

annabel@messagesfromthewild.com

www.messagesfromthewild.com