Wildlife

Wild UK Pollinators and Welfare 2026

The welfare of wild bees, hoverflies, and other pollinators facing habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and disease.

Key Facts

UK pollinator populations have declined significantly since the 1980s
Neonicotinoid pesticide restrictions have been repeatedly granted emergency exemptions
Wildflower margin programs have restored some pollinator habitat in farmland
Solitary bee species are particularly vulnerable as they cannot buffer through colony loss
Gardens collectively represent one of the most significant pollinator habitat reserves

Welfare Considerations

Individual pollinators face welfare threats from pesticide exposure, habitat loss, and disease. While invertebrate welfare science is still developing, the scale of pollinator decline and the evidence of nociception in bees justifies serious welfare consideration.

What You Can Do

Create a wildflower garden or container to provide nectar and pollen sources
Avoid all pesticide use in your garden, particularly systemic insecticides
Support organizations advocating for pollinator-safe agricultural practices