UK pollinators include hundreds of wild bee species, hoverflies, moths, butterflies, and beetles, all important for ecosystem function and in decline, requiring habitat management beyond honey bee conservation.
Key Facts
UK has around 270 bee species, far more than just the managed honey bee
Hoverflies are important pollinators and their larvae control aphid pests
Many specialist wild bees are more efficient pollinators than honey bees for specific plants
Pollinator habitats require diverse flowering plants from April through October
Wild pollinator decline affects both ecosystem function and agricultural productivity
Welfare Considerations
Pollinator welfare and conservation extends far beyond honey bee keeping to encompass hundreds of wild bee species and other pollinator groups. Wild pollinator habitat restoration through diverse flowering plants, nesting habitat, and reduced pesticide use is essential for ecosystem function.
What You Can Do
Plant diverse native wildflowers with long flowering seasons for wild pollinators
Provide nesting habitat including bare ground, hedgerows, and log piles for different bee species
Avoid pesticides and advocate for continued neonicotinoid restrictions to protect pollinators