Why Pollinators Need Our Help
It’s Pollinator Awareness Week!
June 21-28
Click HERE to watch the KUSI News segment.
When we think about saving species from extinction, we typically think of the big guys: elephants, rhinos. gorillas. Right?
Well, you may be surprised that the very creatures that we may encounter on a daily basis are actually in threat of being gone forever- pollinating insects.
Click to watch the segment
In our attempt to get rid of ‘bad bugs’, we are also ridding the world of the bugs that our basic needs depend on.
The world is in a pollinator crisis due to Habitat loss, pesticide poisoning, viruses, and parasitic mites, any or all of which may be behind the mysterious syndrome called colony collapse disorder, have taken their toll on pollinators- particularly, domesticated bees.
Here is a list of pollinator facts to bring a little more appreciation to the next beetle you find in your flower garden or bee you hear buzzing around.
Most pollinators (about 200,000 species) are beneficial insects such as flies, beetles, wasps, ants, butterflies, moths, and bees. These outweigh the amount of ‘pests’ that enter our crops and gardens.
About 1,000 of all pollinators are vertebrates such as birds, bats, and small mammals.
Why are pollinators important?
Pollinators are often keystone species, meaning that they are critical to an ecosystem. The work of pollinators ensures full harvests of crops and contributes to healthy plants everywhere.
About 75% of all flowering plant species need the help of pollinators to reproduce.
In fact, it is said that 1/3 of all our food and beverages. Helping the US produce nearly $20 billion worth of products annually.
How to help?
Reduce or eliminate your pesticide use, increase green spaces/local gardens, and minimize urbanization.
Plant for pollinators. Create pollinator-friendly habitats with native flowering plants that supply pollinators with nectar, pollen, and homes. For information on what to plant in your area, download a free eco-regional guide online at www.pollinator.org
Download the pollinator citizen science apps (Insight Citizen Science and Monarch SOS)
Have land? The USFW and Farm Bills offer grants to private landowners for creating pollinator sanctuaries and helping with research.
Support local beekeepers
Learn about the beneficial insects in your years.