Bats, bees, hummingbirds and butterflies are but four of the 200,000 species of pollinators worldwide. Because of pollinators our world enjoys plentiful fresh fruits, nuts and vegetables. But survival of pollinators is currently threatened.
Threats including diseases, pesticides, loss of friendly habitats and other environmental pressures endanger bees and bats. Such detrimental factors result in fewer pollinators. And fewer pollinators requires the transport of colonies for crop pollination where pollinator populations are waning.
Even common house flies are important. Being efficient pollinators, they rank second only to bees fertilizing berries and fruit trees—including cocoa, used to make chocolate.
What can you do to protect pollinators? Protect them by planting flowers and trees that attract bees, butterflies and birds. Also, avoid using pesticides dangerous to pollinators. Finally, provide water and friendly habitats for them.