Bee A Pollinator Hero

What Does a Pollinator Do?

Pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and other insects, as well as some birds and bats, play a critical role in flowering plant reproduction throughout the world. Most of the time, pollination is accidental. An animal will land on a flower to drink its nectar and when they land, a bit of pollen sticks to their body. Then, each time it lands on the next flower, some of that pollen falls off and into the new flower, causing fertilization. After pollen fertilizes the flower, fruits and seeds begin to grow!

Why are Pollinators so Important?

Without pollinators, most natural ecosystems would collapse. An astounding 75% of the world’s flowering plants depend on pollinators to produce their fruits and seeds, while 35% of the world’s food crops depend on pollination. That literally means one of every three bites of food you take is thanks to a bee, a moth, or even a fly. Did we say a fly? That’s right! Chocolate comes from the cacao tree, which is entirely pollinated by flies!

Why Pollinators Need Our Help.

Today, despite this crucial role, many pollinator species are declining throughout their range. Threats include habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive species, pesticide use, climate change, and disease.

Download and print the BEE A Pollinator Hero Activity Booklet HERE