How Important Bees Are!

Just how important are bees for the environment, agriculture and biodiversity?  Well without them we are done for.  They pollinate about 75% of flowering plants and 33% of the crops we eat.  We wouldn't have a lot of the vegetable, fruits, nuts and seeds that we have at our disposal today without them.  They might be small little things but they are hugely important in our ecosystems and our lives.  We must protect them at all costs

Threats to Bees

What are the threats facing bees today?

• Due to forestation, urbanisation and industrialisation of agriculture, the bees are losing their natural habitat.  Traditionally we had hedgerows around the fields and due to mono-agricultural practices we are losing these boundless source of food for all sorts of animals including bees.
• The Varroa Destructor Mite is reeking havoc with the bees by feeding on them and transmitting deadly viruses to them.  And theres a fungal disease called Nosema which affects their digestive system and survival rates
• Climate change has also affected them with warmer temperatures, droughts, floodings, wild fires etc - all extreme conditions that make it difficult for the bee to survive 
• Invasive species, such as hornets, has greatly impacted on the bee, preying on them and wiping them out
• Invasive plants can take over and not provide the nectar that bees require and kill the plants that bees thrive on

What We Can Do To Help Bees

Within our power we have lots of measures to take to help our bees survive

• We can plant bee-friendly flowers and plants in our garden.  All you have to do, really is go to your local garden shop and ask them what flowers/plants are bee friendly
• Don't use pesticides.  Again, your local garden shop should be able to tell you natural ways to combat pests in you garden.  
• Support your local organic growers and farmers and those that have a holistic approach to farming and growing (there's lots around).
• See what local initiatives there are about biodiversity in your area and educate yourself and others

Protecing our bees is protecting our future!!