Buzzin’ Around

They usually have amazing outfits and can fly. So they must be heroes, right?
They most definitely are.

When I step out onto the balcony these days, there is quite a buzz. Literally. All kinds of bees, wasps, hoverflies and other insects are constantly commuting between the various blooming plants. Well, as hot as it is right now, some of them are also chilling at the insect bars I have installed: Flat lids with stones on them, saucers filled with just enough to drink up without taking an involuntary bath.

And I am happy about the busy bunch. They have filled all the berry bushes and are also very productive in creating seeds for next year’s colorful and delicious assortment on the premises.

Technically, our world is like a balcony all in one. Nearly all species of flowering plants need these tiny buzzers. Three-quarters of the world’s major crops depend on animal pollinators. They not only put all kinds of fruit on our tables – including our beloved tomatoes and pumpkins – but also help nuts and other seeds grow. Many animal foods and even fibers (cotton) also need that little extra love. This adds up to about 5 – 15 billion (!) Euros in agricultural productivity.

With their enormous work, bees and their industrious winged colleagues support numerous ecosystems, large and small, which in turn maintain landscapes and livable environments for many species. Including us humans.

And by the way: It’s not just bees, wasps, and butterflies that do the hero work. Other important pollinators include hoverflies, beetles, hummingbirds, moths, and bats.

Yes, even at night they do it…

Three-quarters of the world’s major crops depend on animal pollinators.

Side Notes:

• Of course, by “do it” above, I am referring to Cole Porter’s wonderful tune “Let’s Fall in Love”.
• Want to get a little backup on the numbers above? Well, I have put together some resources on the [InfoByteSized] page.