Dr. Tim Cockerill of ‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE’ from National Geographic TV On The Message He Hopes Viewers Take From The Docuseries

Recent technological advancements, particularly in macro lenses and high-speed cameras, opened up new possibilities for filming. Insects, often displaying rapid movements, can now be captured in intricate detail. This technology allowed us to bring the audience closer to the insect world, providing a fresh perspective on familiar creatures. Filming insects in their natural habitats, with the expertise of storytelling and camera professionals, adds an exciting dimension for viewers new to this realm.

I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Tim Cockerill, Scientific Consultant of ‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE’ from National Geographic TV.

Dr Tim Cockerill is a zoologist, broadcaster and photographer. Tim has a PhD in tropical ecology and is a Fellow of the Royal Entomological society. Tim works as a scientific consultant and insect wrangler in TV and Film, and is Senior Lecturer in Natural History at Falmouth University. He has a PhD in tropical insect ecology from the University of Cambridge and is a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society.

Inspired by the World of Disney and Pixar’s ‘A BUG’S LIFE,’ the new Disney+ Original Series from National Geographic, ‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE,’ is an incredible adventure into nine different micro bug worlds around the globe, where the forces of nature play out on a miniature scale and where tiny creatures rely on amazing powers and extraordinary alliances to make it through each day. The stakes are high…even if the critters are extraordinarily small. With new developments in filming technology and narrated by fun and witty guide Awkwafina, follow the incredible stories of the tiny heroes living in worlds beyond the imagination — from a jumping spider looking for a home on the streets of New York to a Costa Rican orchid bee’s first day on the job making perfume! Full of mind-blowing new behaviors and larger-than-life characters, this family-friendly series shows that A REAL BUG’S LIFE can be every bit as fantastical as any animated film.

Can you briefly share what inspired your career in documenting and communicating diverse life on Earth, particularly focusing on insects?

Growing up in East Yorkshire, in a typical suburban setting, my fascination with insects began with a tiny book, the Collins Gem Guide to Insects. Spending hours in the garden, I discovered a diverse world of bugs, each captivating in its own way. This childhood exploration set me on a path that spans over 30 years, constantly discovering new aspects of insects. Insects, being the most diverse group of animals, surpass all other living things in complexity. So, the question isn’t why study insects, but rather, why bother studying anything else?

As a consultant for “A REAL BUG’S LIFE,” how does your background in tropical ecology and entomology contribute to exploring micro bug worlds globally?

Ecology, the study of interactions in ecosystems, forms the foundation of my scientific background. My Ph.D. years in the Borneo rainforest allowed me to climb into the canopy and discover new species. This intimate understanding of insects, their behavior influenced by factors like temperature and humidity, became valuable when collaborating with TV producers. Bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and storytelling, I guide the practical aspects of filming, ensuring a harmonious blend of science and entertainment.

What were the most fascinating aspects of filming and exploring miniature ecosystems for the series?

Recent technological advancements, particularly in macro lenses and high-speed cameras, opened up new possibilities for filming. Insects, often displaying rapid movements, can now be captured in intricate detail. This technology allowed us to bring the audience closer to the insect world, providing a fresh perspective on familiar creatures. Filming insects in their natural habitats, with the expertise of storytelling and camera professionals, adds an exciting dimension for viewers new to this realm.

How does your experience as a scientific consultant and insect wrangler shape the storytelling and presentation of tiny heroes in the series?

From the series’ inception, my role involved guiding practical decisions and contributing to story generation. With around 2 million known insect species and many more undiscovered, untold stories awaited discovery. I introduced exciting insect facts during brainstorming sessions, aiding in planning and making the seemingly impractical feasible. The collaboration between science and storytelling brought to life never-before-filmed scenes and previously untold stories.

Can you share standout moments or behaviors of insects that surprised you during filming?

One surprising revelation during filming was the suggestion that jumping spiders may dream. Recent research hinted at signs in sleeping spiders akin to those in humans, challenging preconceptions of insect intelligence. This cutting-edge information, gathered at the cusp of research, adds an element of excitement to the stories shared with viewers.

As a Senior Lecturer in Natural History, how do you approach educating and engaging viewers in a family-friendly series like this?

Our unique approach goes beyond dry scientific observations. Immersing ourselves in the insect world, we bring viewers down to the insect’s eye level. This shift in perspective reveals the drama and excitement in the lives of these tiny creatures, mirroring the highs and lows of human experiences. Once viewers see these parallels, the realization dawns that the lives of insects are just as, if not more, exciting than our own.

How do new filming technologies contribute to showcasing the intricate lives of insects in the series?

Recent advancements in filming techniques, especially high-speed cameras, have revolutionized our ability to capture fast insect behaviors in unprecedented detail. This technology allows us to film insects in their natural habitats, providing clarity and insight that was previously unattainable. The series has achieved genuine firsts, thanks to these technological breakthroughs.

How can our readers stay updated on your work and the stories of tiny heroes in ‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE?’

‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE’ premieres on January 24th 2024 on Disney+.

For updates on my work and the fascinating stories featured in ‘A REAL BUG’S LIFE,’ follow me on Instagram at @drtimcockerill and visit my website timcockerill.com

Thank you for your time and for sharing your expertise with us, Tim.