Insect Decline and Animal Welfare: Ecosystem Impacts on Vertebrate Species

The global collapse of insect populations is devastating vertebrate wildlife that depends on insects for food. This has profound welfare implications for many species.

Key Facts

Global insect biomass has declined by an estimated 75% in some regions over the past 30 years
Over 60% of bird species in Europe depend on insects as a primary food source, especially during breeding
Insectivorous bat species have shown population declines closely correlated with insect availability
Hedgehogs, amphibians, and many fish species rely on insect emergence for seasonal nutritional peaks
Insect decline is driven by pesticide use, habitat loss, light pollution, and climate disruption
The welfare consequences for insectivore predators include starvation, reduced reproduction, and chronic malnutrition

Welfare Considerations

The collapse of insect populations creates cascading welfare harms for the many vertebrate species that depend on them. Insectivorous birds raising chicks during periods of low caterpillar availability suffer significantly higher chick mortality and parental stress. Bats that cannot find adequate insect prey face nutritional deficits affecting immune function and reproductive success. The welfare dimension of insect decline is often overlooked because it is indirect, but the suffering experienced by dependent species is no less real. Addressing insect decline is therefore a major animal welfare priority.

What You Can Do

Create insect habitat in gardens through wildflower planting, log piles and reduced mowing
Avoid pesticide use in domestic gardens and advocate for reduced agricultural pesticide applications
Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night to reduce light pollution that disorients insects
Support farmers who adopt insect-friendly land management practices through purchasing choices
Advocate for insect-friendly agricultural policies at local, national and European levels