Author Helen Pilcher

Helen Pilcher

Science writer, presenter and performer.

Helen Pilcher is a tea-drinking, biscuit-nibbling science and comedy writer, with a PhD in cell biology. She contributes regularly to BBC Wildlife and BBC Science Focus, and has penned many popular science books. Life Changing: How Humans are Altering Life on Earth was The Times 2020 Science Book of the Year and was shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize for Writing on Global Conservation. Bring Back the King: The New Science of De-extinction was Radio 2’s Fact Not Fiction Book of the Week, and was described by comedian Sara Pasco as ‘science at its funniest.’ In other news, Helen is science advisor to the Beano, and owns a genetically-modified wolf called Higgs. Her favourite bird is the kakapo, her favourite moth is the Merveille du Jour and her favourite beverage is a warm, milky brew; no sugar.

Recent articles by Helen Pilcher

This bizarre shrinking frog is breaking nature's biggest rules

How can a frog get smaller as it grows up?
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Why is my dog scooting?

Here's what your dog is trying to tell you when it's rubbing its bum across the ground.
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Meet the civet, the animal that poops the world's most expensive coffee

From jungle droppings to luxury brew
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The end of food allergies is tantalisingly close. Here are the frontrunners for a cure

The number of severe immune reactions to food is reaching epidemic proportions, but a one-size-fits-all cure could be on the horizon.
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If a worm was cut lengthways. would it regenerate?

Inside the strange science of animal regeneration
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This Tully monster mystery keeps getting weirder

Step aside, Loch Ness Monster
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Are cats liquid?

Cats take a unique approach to small spaces, even if they shouldn't really fit
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What are the best preserved Ice Age animals

Frozen in time, these prehistoric animals offer an astonishing glimpse into the past.
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Why this 'zombie hand' fungus is even deadlier than it looks

Don't be put off by its creepy look, this fungus is actually great for the local wildlife.
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Why do dogs circle round and round before pooping?

There really is nothing science hasn't turned its attention to.
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Nature’s weirdest: The furry hedgehog

They're the same size as a house mouse.
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Nature's weirdest: The honey badger

They're like the UFC fighters of the animal kingdom. Seriously, don't mess.
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Why bees are secretly one of Earth's most intelligent creatures

They could well be the linchpin holding Earth's entire ecosystem together... so it's no wonder they're busy. Here's everything you need to know about the important insects that are under threat.
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Why do cats pile up imaginary litter outside their litter box?

It's another quirk of our furry friends.
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Is my dog intentionally trying to make me laugh?

Our pets are often paws-itively hilarious. But are they doing it on purpose?
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Why do cats love knocking stuff off tables?

Their cuteness excuses the broken vases.
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Do animals that swallow their food whole, perceive taste?

Do animals that swallow their food whole, perceive taste?Apparently so, though not how you might think.
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A scientist's guide to life | 9 skincare tips from a dermatologist

Consultant dermatologist Dr Bav Shergill reveals how to keep your largest organ looking peachy.
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Nature’s Weirdest: The saiga antelope

Now that's a honker and a half.
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Why are some people and animals lactose intolerant, despite drinking their mother’s milk when young?

Is milk just for kids?
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