Most of us realize that pollinating insects are critically important for the reproduction and survival of flowering plants. But did you realize that bees are in crisis Honey bees are dying in unprecedented numbers in a phenomenon known as Colony Collapse Disorder, and populations of many native bee and butterfly species are in decline as well? The causes are a combination of factors, including loss of habitat for nest sites and food, pesticides, pests and diseases, and others. So what can you do to help.
Helping Habitats & Pollinators Tips
Here are a few tips...
- Reduce or eliminate pesticide use, and if you need to apply them, do so when birds, bees, and butterflies are not active;
- Create pollinator-friendly habitat by reducing your lawn area and planting a border of native flowering plants;
- Plant a variety of flowering native plants to attract and feed butterflies and bees throughout the growing season. The greater the variety of plants, the greater diversity of pollinators. Pollinating birds will benefit as well.
To learn more about how you can help bring back pollinators visit the Xerces Society or visit a pollinator website for information on local pollinators.
This message brought to you by the City of Moscow's Sustainable Environment Commission.