Ten questions you asked us about wild pollinators

1 – Why are wild pollinators declining in Canada?

Fewer natural spaces are available for wildlife every year, so fewer pollinators find the water, shelter and flowering plants they need to thrive and survive in Canada.

2 – Can I spray my yard for mosquitoes without harming pollinators?

Residential mosquito sprays are “highly toxic to native pollinators such as bees and butterflies” (National Wildlife Federation). Instead, wear repellant and light clothing to deter them.

3 – What species of bee needs the most help?

Canada’s national registry of at-risk wildlife lists three “endangered” wild bees needing help: the rusty-patched bumblebee, gypsy cuckoo bumblebee and macropis cuckoo bee.

4 – Is beekeeping bad for wild bees?

Domestic bees and wild bees can co-exist, but honeybees can outcompete native bees for limited resources. Also, honeybees can transmit diseases and parasites to wild bumblebee populations.

5 – Where can I find monarch butterflies?

Many places! The western monarch population migrates north into British Columbia while eastern monarchs summer in the south of most other provinces—with the largest number found in Ontario.

6 – Are monarch butterflies ranging further north?

Researchers believe monarchs are ranging northward along with milkweed plants, the sole diet of monarch caterpillars—which steps up Canada’s vital importance to monarch populations.

7 – How can I attract pollinators to my yard?

Try to select flowering plants that bloom at different times—return visits to new flowers keep pollinators well-fed all season long!

• Choose native plants that grow best where you live
• Plant milkweed and native flowers in full sun for butterflies
• Plant yellow, blue and purple flowers for native bees
• Flowering herbs, trees and shrubs are great pollen sources

8 – How can local governments help wild pollinators?

Towns and municipalities oversee parks, corridors and roadsides where natural spaces enhanced with flowering native plants can help pollinators with healthy habitats.

9 – Does my “community science” help pollinators?

Environmental research can be enriched with observations collected using nature apps such as iNaturalist. There is limited observation data about insects, making each entry even more important.

10 – What details should I observe about wild pollinators?

iNaturalist recommends that you record and share a clear photo, the date, your location, and the species name. Community members can help you identify the species, on request.