World Bee Day: The Vital Role of Bees and How We Can Help
On Monday the 20th of May, the world turned its attention to World Bee Day, an annual movement, established by the United Nations to raise awareness of the dangers that bees face and the decline in populations. It is crucial that we understand the importance they have in our ecosystems. Did you know that we have over 250 species of bees in the UK? Durham Wildlife Trust has a list of our local bees and wasps. Unfortunately, due to climate change and human impact, bee numbers are declining. United Nations also said that 35% of pollinators like bees and butterflies face extinction globally.
Although there is not a defined reason the bee population is declining, the soil association noted that a few leading causes could be:
Habitat loss: Wildflower meadows for example have decreased by 97% since 1930s due to changes in agricultural practices and new development.
Pesticides: Pesticides that are used on crops are designed to kill pests. Unfortunately, this means that bees and many other insects are also exposed to these chemicals, which has lead in part to a significant decline in bees and insects across the countryside.
The varroa mite: This is a parasite that is a huge danger to the honeybee as it attaches itself, sucks blood and can spread around the hive, causing viruses and diseases to spread.
Asian Hornets: Although this species is not common in the UK, their numbers are increasing across the country. Unfortunately, they are a threat to our honeybees and insect pollinators, as they feed on and dismember colonies. The BBC covered this on their website.
Why are bees important?
The earth’s survival depends on what our bees do. Bees are pollinators which means they transfer pollen to our plants and flowers to allow fertilisation. According to the United Nations, 90% of the world’s wildflowers depend on animal pollination. With help from other pollinators like butterflies, bats and hummingbirds, bees are essential to ensure we have colourful fields, green trees, and flourishing nature.
Pollination is also crucial for 75% of crops, meaning without bees this could reduce our food supply. And we cannot forget that bees also make the most delicious honey. Bees play a huge part in maintaining our environments, helping ecosystems thrive and our earth bloom.
How can we help?
Let your garden grow: Plant wild flowers, grow a garden and let wildlife flourish.
Create bee-friendly spaces: Build or buy a bee hotel, giving bees a safe place to rest. Build a bee bath to give them a place to hydrate safely. Gardeners World have lots of ideas to make your garden bee-friendly.
Support organic farming: Purchase food from organic farmers to support those who do not use pesticides. This is a small but big step that can make a difference in reducing the threat to our bees.
Spread the word: Educate yourself and others about our bees. Share statistics and things you can do to help save our bees and reduce climate change impacts.
Every little action we take makes a difference. Bees are one of the most important species we have, therefore it is vital we do our bit to help.
