Wild Insect Decline and Ecosystem Welfare

Insect populations have declined dramatically in many regions, with cascading welfare impacts on insectivorous birds, bats, amphibians, and fish that depend on insects as food.

Key Facts

Studies suggest up to 40% of insect species globally are threatened with extinction
Pesticide use, habitat loss, light pollution, and climate change are primary drivers of decline
Insectivorous bird populations have declined in parallel with insect declines in Europe and North America
Aquatic insects are critical food for fish and amphibians in freshwater ecosystems
Pollinator declines affect plant reproduction, reducing food availability for many wildlife species

Welfare Considerations

Insect decline creates cascading welfare harms through food web disruption. Insectivorous animals that cannot find adequate prey experience starvation stress and reduced reproductive success. Bats with inadequate insect availability cannot meet energy demands. The welfare impacts of insect decline are systemic and diffuse — affecting billions of animals indirectly through food web disruption. Addressing insect decline through pesticide reduction and habitat restoration benefits wildlife welfare across entire ecosystems.

What You Can Do

Reduce or eliminate pesticide use in your garden to protect local insect populations
Plant diverse native vegetation that provides insect habitat and food year-round
Reduce outdoor lighting that disrupts insect behavior and reproduction
Advocate for pesticide reduction and habitat restoration policies at local and national levels