The Buzz
The importance of pollinators!
Will Pollinate for Food!
Why are pollinators so important? Just like water, pollinators play a critical role in food production. 1 out of every 3 bites of food consumed are there because of a pollinator. Between 75% -95% of all flowering plants, fruits, and vegetables rely on pollination for production.
What pollinators does Texas have?
In Texas, pollinators are bats, bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, moths, wasps, flies, and beetles.
Want to learn more about the insects at the Ditch? Click the link below to see what insect observations have been made at the Ditch!
Ten Things You Can Do in Your Yard to Encourage Pollinators
Plant a pollinator garden—provide nectar and feeding plants (flowers and herbs).
Provide a water source—place shallow dishes of water in sunny areas or create a muddy spot.
Provide shelter and overwintering habitat (bee boxes, undisturbed soil areas, and piles of woody debris).
Stop using insecticides and reduce other pesticides.
Provide sunny areas out of the wind.
Use native plant species whenever possible—mimic local natural areas.
Grow flowers throughout the season. Provide a variety of colors and shapes.
Plant in clumps and layers. Use layers of trees and shrubs, with some low-growing perennials and vines, intermixed with flowering annuals.
Use compost instead of commercial fertilizers.
Look but do not touch.
Explore Further: At-Home Activity
🐝 Native Bees of Texas Quiz 🐝
Test your knowledge of different native Texas bee species!
Illustrations by Katie McElroy