Results published recently in German study show that insect numbers there have declined by nearly 80% in 24 years.
The reasons for this decline aren't certain, but are likely to include simplification of the countryside, loss of habitats and use of herbicides and pesticides. As pollinators and predators of pests, as well as food for other animals, insects are vital to the health of other wildlife and that includes us!
Although their losses seem huge, there are things we can do to help them in our gardens or neighbourhoods.
The secret of attracting insects to your local park or your garden is to give them somewhere to feed, breed and shelter. Provide as much structure and variety as you can and you'll be amazed at the insects that move in and the birds that arrive to feed on them.
So why not try...
1. Making room for shrubs and trees in your garden.
Native species like hazel ,holly rowan and birch are all good. Sallow blossom in early spring is brilliant for emerging bees and butterflies.
2. Providing dead wood for beetles and bees to nest in
A log pile makes an excellent shelter for over-wintering insects and spiders. Dead tree-stumps of old gateposts are home for rare stag beetles or solitary wasps.
3. Drill holes in logs to make nest-burrows for solitary bees
4. Allow ivy to grow in your garden - don't chop it back!
Ivy flowers in autumn are brilliant nectar sources for hoverflies (whose larvae will help eat aphids), moths, butterflies and bees.
Evergreen ivy leaves are excellent shelters for ladybirds and many other invertebrates in winter.
5. Create small gravelly or sandy areas
Make sure they're in sunny spots and you'll be surprised at how many solitary bees and wasps make their nest-burrows there.
6. Build a bug hotel
It couldn't be easier. Gather some sticks, some bricks and some leaf litter and start building a structure. You can customise the design to your own liking - so there's no excuse for every garden to not have one! It's a great activity to get your kids involved with, too!
