- Easy! Bumblebees They pollinate not only wildflowers, but also tomatoes and other veggies
- Hummingbirds The ruby-throated hummingbird is the prevalent species in WNY.
- Monarch butterflies They depend on milkweed plants for the completion of their life cycle.
- Wasps They are also a natural pest control as they capture many plant pests to feed to their young.
- Paper wasps build large nests up in trees or attached to buildings.
- Swallowtail butterflies They help to spread pollen, although not as effectively as do bees. They will visit a wide variety of wildflowers.
- Bee-flies (or Bombyliid flies) They look like honey bees and in some parts of North America they pollinate more than bees.
- Humingbird moths They get their name from the way they fly – similar to a hummingbird. They are drawn to plants like honeysuckle and fruits like cherries.
- Hoverflies Important pollinators of wildflowers and agricultural crops. They look like bees, but do not sting. They mimic bees as a form of protection.
- Many beetle species such as the elderberry borer and scarab beetles are important pollinators.
How did you do in naming all ten?
Many species of pollinators are disappearing. What can you do to help pollinators around your home or property?
Put out nectar feeders for butterflies and hummingbirds.
Plant native plant species. Look for pollinator plant seeds.
Plant milkweed (or at least don't cut it down!).
Avoid spraying chemicals on lawns, gardens, and other areas.
The above information is from NYS Conservationist for Kids. Conservationist Kids magazine has fun activities and information on topics ranging from wildlife and fishing to recycling and air quality. You can subscribe to Conservationist magazine and receive the Conservationist for Kids. It is also available online at https://www.dec.ny.gov/education/100637.html
