Pollinator Welfare: Bees, Butterflies, and Beyond

Pollinator welfare encompasses the wellbeing of bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other critical insect pollinators.

Key Facts

Pollinators are essential for food production and ecosystem function worldwide
UK bee populations have declined dramatically over the past 50 years
Pesticide exposure, particularly neonicotinoids, impairs bee navigation and reproduction
Habitat loss reduces pollen and nectar sources available to pollinators
Disease (Varroa mite, Nosema) causes significant honeybee welfare impacts
Climate change is disrupting the timing of plant flowering and pollinator emergence

Welfare Considerations and Management

Pollinator welfare requires addressing multiple simultaneous threats. Pesticide reduction, particularly systemic insecticides, protects bee neurology and reproduction. Wildflower habitat creation provides nutrition throughout the foraging season. Varroa mite management in honeybee colonies (using approved treatments) reduces mite-related mortality. Native bee and pollinator habitat provision (diverse flower-rich gardens, undisturbed nesting sites) supports wild bee populations. Engagement with farming practices through agri-environment schemes drives landscape-scale change.

What You Can Do

Plant a diverse range of pollen-rich flowers from spring to autumn in your garden
Avoid or eliminate pesticide use, particularly systemic insecticides
Leave areas of unmown grass and bare earth for ground-nesting bees
Support agri-environment schemes and pollinator-friendly farming practices