Rewilding for Insects: Welfare and Ecosystem Recovery

Insect populations have declined dramatically across the UK and Europe, and rewilding approaches that restore complex habitats are proving effective for insect recovery.

Key Facts

Flying insect biomass has declined by over 75% in some European countries since 1990
The UK State of Nature report shows 41% of species have declined since 1970
Pesticide reduction, habitat restoration, and reduced management intensity all benefit insects
Wildflower margins, hedgerows, and wet grassland provide critical insect habitat
Rewilding projects including Knepp in West Sussex show dramatic insect recovery within years

Welfare Considerations

Insect welfare at the individual level remains scientifically uncertain given debates about their sentience. However, at the population and ecosystem level, insect decline has profound implications for the welfare of the many species that depend on insects for food. Insectivorous birds, bats, hedgehogs, and farmland mammals all suffer from insect decline through reduced food availability. Rewilding approaches that restore insect populations have cascading welfare benefits through the food web.

What You Can Do

Create insect habitat in your garden including wildflowers, log piles, and undisturbed areas
Advocate for pesticide reduction and agri-environment schemes that benefit insects
Support the Buglife and Butterfly Conservation insect conservation campaigns
Visit and support rewilding projects demonstrating insect recovery
Share information about insect decline and recovery with others