Did you know that nearly 1,000 plant species grown for human use require pollination each year? This includes apples, tomatoes, and almonds, just to name a few! Pollinators are responsible for fertilizing over 75% of the world’s flowering plants.
National Pollinator Week is celebrated the third week of June to raise awareness and support pollinator health. Pollinators play a crucial role in their environment, supporting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems by transferring pollen between plants, facilitating seed production, and promoting successful seed development.
One of the most common pollinators are bees, but also include several other insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals, including butterflies, wasps, hummingbirds, and bats.
Pollinators around us
Michigan is home to a wide variety of pollinators that play important roles in our local ecosystems:
- Bees
- Native species like bumblebees, carpenter bees, and sweat bees are vital, along with the non-native but important honeybee.
- Butterflies & Moths
- Attracted to specific flowers and key contributors to pollination.
- Hummingbirds
- Especially the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, which breeds throughout eastern North America and is a frequent visitor to Michigan gardens.
- Flies & Beetles
- Often overlooked, these are among the oldest known pollinator groups.
- Bats
- Less common in Michigan but still contribute in some regions.
Unfortunately, pollinators face several threats, including habitat loss from development and agriculture, climate change, pesticides, and disease. Some species of bumblebees are experiencing a near 50% decline since 1974.
How you can help
Some things you can do to help include planting native wildflowers such as milkweed, black-eyed susans, purple coneflower, wild bergamot, asters, and goldenrod. These plants offer nectar and habitat support.
Avoid or limit the use of pesticides and herbicides on gardens, especially when flowers are blooming. If possible, provide clean water and nesting spaces around your home. Support local beekeepers to sustain healthy bee colonies and encourage pollinator-friendly practices.
Lastly, spread the word by sharing photos of pollinators you see, plant stories, or local events using the hashtag #PollinatorWeek.
Why your help is important
Pollinators are a key part of our ecosystems, essential to biodiversity and agriculture. But their future is at risk. Your actions this week can make a lasting impact. Visit Pollinator Partnership to learn more and find events near you
Let’s work together to ensure these species not only survive but thrive all year round!
#PollinatorWeek #Conservation
References:
https://www.pollinator.org/pollinator-week
https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/wildflowers/pollinators/importance
