Maggots are disgusting, right? Lulu has a hard time even saying the word maggot.

But in this episode, we’re asking you to join us in setting our “ick” aside. If you stick with us, we promise that you’ll go from thinking these bugs are the grossest things ever to actually kinda liking them. Maybe even loving them.

ER doctor Avir Mitra leads us down a rabbit hole of scientific discovery, explaining how these revolting critters have a history - and future - of saving human limbs and lives. Plus, a musical lesson in wound treatment 101.

Tell us what creature you want a future show about! Submit suggestions on what animals we should do our next season on here!

Terrestrials was created by Lulu Miller with WNYC studios. This episode was produced by Alan Goffinski with sound design by Mira Burt-Wintonick. Our Executive Producer is Sarah Sandbach. Our team also includes Ana Gonzalez, Tanya Chawla and Joe Plourde. Factchecking was by Natalie Middleton.

Huge thank you to Dr Avir Mitra. If you liked his storytelling, listen to some more stories he did with Radiolab:

The Elixir of Life

Dispatch 5: Don't Stop Believin'

The Dirty Drug and the Ice Cream Tub

Our advisors for this show were Jamie Albright, kid advisor Kai, momma (fly) Maya, Ana Luz Porzecanski, Nicole Depalma and Carly Ciarrocchi.

Support for Terrestrials also comes from the Simons Foundation, the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, and the John Templeton Foundation.

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Maggies: The Healing Power of Baby Flies

Terrestrials