- A new study shows about 1 in 5 of North America’s native pollinators face an increased risk of extinction. Without pollinators, the human race could not survive.
- Bees, in particular, face the most significant threat, with more than a third of bee species at an increased risk for extinction.
- Planting flowers native to the local area can help save them.
Full Story
There’s some truth to the saying, “Save the bees, save the planet,” but it’s not just bees — it’s all pollinators.
Now, a newly published, first-of-its-kind study on North America’s pollinators is giving cause for alarm.
First of all, what are pollinators?
Pollinators are animals that help move pollen from one flower to another.
Without them, the human race would not survive.
What did researchers learn?
The study was conducted by a North American group of nonprofits, academic organizations and government agencies.
The group studied nearly 1,600 species, including insects, birds, bats and some mammals. The group found more than 1 in 5 (22%) of the continent’s native pollinators are at an increased risk for extinction.
The situation is especially dire for bees and bats.
Researchers say more than a third of North America’s bee species and all three pollinating bat species are at risk of extinction.
Where are they seeing the most significant impact?
The part of North America facing the biggest threat is the American Southwest, where there are a lot of different species and climate-related stressors.
Researchers say climate change is a significant factor putting pollinators in danger, but pesticide use, habitat loss and urban development also play key roles.
How can people help?
The study’s authors say planting flowering plants native to the local area makes a big difference. Experts recommend that people use pesticide-free seeds when planting.
While it may not win any landscaping awards, experts also encourage people to leave dead vegetation alone, as it helps provide a home for insects throughout their life cycles.
