Pollinators

Pollinators. Hutchinson Tract, Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge. How easy it is to celebrate large spectacular forms of wildlife such as the bald eagle. Yet there are thousands and perhaps millions of vital wildlife species on this refuge, each of which could easily fit in a teaspoon. Among these important “little guys” are pollinators such as native bees and butterflies.

Unexpected Pollinators , According to the North American Pollinator Protection Campaign, some of the pollinators that keep native plants reproducing include hummingbirds, bats, beetles, and certain frogs, toads and salamanders.

Pollination Champions , North America’s roughly 4,000 species of native bees are our most important wild pollinators. Here are just a few of the bee species found in this region.

Why are Pollinators So Vital? , Insect and other animal pollinators are critical to plant reproduction. The pollen they move from flower to flower ensures the development of fruits, seeds, nuts, and other plant parts that wildlife depends on for food. Specifically, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has identified about 370 species of native plants within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The wildlife of this region relies on about 60 percent of these native plants for food, shelter, and nesting.

Save a Pollinator , Pollinators need wild habitat for nesting and gathering nectar and pollen. You can help save them for future generation by: , Planting a variety of native flowering plants that bloom at different times. , Avoid or limit your use of pesticides. , Put up a homemade box. Information is available at: www.xerces.org.