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| Dragonfly |
We live in an interconnected world where what impacts one species in an ecosystem, impacts the ecosystem as a whole. As we enter the beginning of Pollinator Week, it is a good time to remember that all insects, even those considered pests, are beneficial in some way to this planet we all call home.
Although it is easy to want to rid the world of mosquitos, ticks and a host of other bugs, there is a whole other sphere of living things that rely on these insects for survival. They provide a food source for birds and reptiles, and although they can carry diseases which can be life threatening to many mammals, including humans, they also serve a purpose in controlling certain animal populations. As with everything, the key is to maintain a proper balance in populations, as nature intended. The problem is that humans have done a wonderful job in disrupting this balance. Through the inadvertent importation of invasive species; destruction of natural habitats; elimination of natural predators; and the impacts to the climate from the release of fossil fuels and other practices; humans actions have had a cascading effect on insect populations. As with many environmental problems, it is easy to become discouraged and to discount possible solutions as insignificant. Nevertheless, there are practices that can be implemented on individual properties that can make a difference.
In an opinion piece for the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this year, the authors identify "Eight simple actions that individuals can take to save insects from global declines." Here are some of the key recommendations that all property owners can implement at little to minimal cost.
- Decrease lawn space and instead create diverse natural habitats.
- Plant native plant species that will provide food and habitat for insects.
- Reduce (and I would say eliminate) herbicide and pesticide use.
- Be cognizant of outside artificial light and dim or eliminate when possible.
These few simple steps can help insects and other wildlife have a safe haven on your property, helping to restore a natural balance between a wide variety of species such as the microscopic life in the soil, bees, butterflies, birds and larger animals. This week, next time you see any type of insect in your yard, whether it be beautiful butterfly or something that might typically make you squeamish, remember that they all have a place is the larger circle of life.
