Why Gardeners Are Urged to Help Pollinators This Weekend
Gardeners are being asked to leave a tray of water in their garden this weekend. This simple action can make a significant difference in supporting the world’s pollinators after days of blazing sunshine.
The Impact of Hot Weather on Pollinators
Though the extended hot weather, following so much rain in June and early July, has been a welcome boost for our gardens, the heatwave conditions can make life more difficult for vital pollinators like bees. Bumblebees, as well as regular bees and even wasps, are important pollinators that play a vital role in our ecosystem.
The Decline of Bumblebee Populations
As the World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) has warned, bumblebee numbers are in serious decline because of habitat loss due to various factors: pesticides, pollution, and, of course, climate change. Bumblebees are covered in a furry coat, which helps protect them in the UK’s usually moderate climate. However, as hot summers get even hotter, bumblebee populations could be put under more pressure, the WWF says.
How a Tray of Water Can Help
That’s why gardeners are being asked to leave a tray of water in their gardens this weekend to help bumblebees endure the harsh weather conditions. Paul De Ornellas, Chief Adviser for Wildlife at WWF, said, “Bumblebees are crucial for pollinating crops, fruits, and plants, and they always make me smile when I see them. They’re vital for maintaining a healthy environment and for our food production.”
Challenges Faced by Bumblebees
Unfortunately, like many insects, bumblebees are in decline due to habitat loss linked to land use change, pesticides, and pollution, all made worse by climate change. As temperatures rise, bumblebees are moving north to look for more suitable environments, but sadly, some species could find themselves with nowhere left to go. Bumblebees, with their furry coat, much prefer cooler climates as they can easily overheat and become unable to fly or forage. They also struggle in times of extreme heat as the flowers providing them with nectar and pollen may start wilting and drying.
Simple Steps to Support Bumblebees
De Ornellas advised that gardeners should, in addition to planting flowers in shaded areas, place a tray of water in the garden to help bumblebees cool off. “Flowering plants in shady areas will be a welcome relief for bumblebees. If you see a sleepy bumblebee on the pavement or a windowsill in the hot sun, they can be carefully transported to a flower in a shady area if safe to do so.”
He added, “Provide a shallow tray of water, with pebbles, branches, or bark above the water level for bees to rest on as they drink.” This small act of kindness can help bumblebees survive and thrive even in challenging conditions.
