Pollinators

Pollination is one of the most important ecological processes on this planet. We depend on pollinators every day for our production of everything from apples to squash, to even chocolate. However, many of our pollinators are under threat. While bees are likely the best known pollinators, hummingbirds, butterflies, moths, flies and beetles are also crucial to the pollination process.

The main threat facing pollinators is loss of habitat. As native vegetation is being replaced with exotic gardens, large expanses of lawn and roadways, pollinators lose the resources they need for survival.

Toxic chemicals are another serious threat. Even minimal quantities of toxic chemicals can prove fatal to pollinators, due to their small size. Insecticides, though intended for pest insects, can also kill beneficial insects and stay in the environment for long periods of time. Herbicides for getting rid of weeds destroy important food sources that pollinators depend on, impacting their chances of survival.

Climate change also directly impacts pollinators. A spike in temperature increases imported parasites’ chance to survive and prey on pollinators. Moreover, pollinator ranges may be reduced, and the natural timing of pollen production and pollinators’ activities may no longer match up seasonally.

CWF’s Backyard Habitat Program encourages Canadians to help wildlife by creating wildlife-friendly gardens, reducing the use of pesticides and helping conserve wildlife habitat. Moreover, CWF dedicated the theme of 2008’s National Wildlife Week to “Pollinators: from flowers to food to our future.”  

• Watch Hinterland Who’s Who’s pollinator webisode »
• Learn how to build a pollinator paradise in your own backyard!
  

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