What are pollinators?
According to the U.S. Forest Service, pollination is an essential ecological function. Without pollinators, the human race and all of Earth’s terrestrial ecosystems would not survive. Over 80% of the world’s flowering plants require a pollinator to reproduce. Animals that assist plants in their reproduction as pollinators include species of bats, butterflies, moths, flies, birds, beetles, ants, and bees.
U.S. Forest Service on Pollinators
Native Plants
Pollinators obtain food in the form of energy-rich nectar and/or protein-rich pollen from the flowers they visit. In return, the pollinated flowers are able to develop and produce seed. Residents who are interested in attracting pollinators to their yard can can visit the following places and websites for 2014, to purchase native flowering plants or seeds.
Natural Garden Natives
Possibility Place Nursery
Prairie Moon Nursery
Prairie Nursery
Bee Pollinator Friendly
Encourage pollinators to visit your yard by:
- Growing native plants
- Not using pesticides, if you must, bee smart
- Putting up bee nests, or create areas for nests
- Joining Bee Spotter to help researchers learn about bees