Love bugs 2

As insect populations plummet and the world, in particular Europe, discusses the alarming prospect of an impending “Insectageddon” or “Insectapocalypse”, are most people even really aware of their growing absence?

Do people just see insects as creepy-crawly nuisances in their environments? And would we rather be rid of them all?

We must understand the vital role insects play within our complex ecology, from providing a food source for birds, animals, fish, reptiles, amphibians and more to pollinating most of our produce and even the important role of decomposition of dead plant matter, manure and dead animals.

Where does the blame for their decreasing numbers rest in Europe? Many would point the finger at farming practices including the clearing of habitats, the decimation of plant species resulting in limited biodiversity and the blanket spraying of insecticides and herbicides.

So being aware of what’s in our backyard is a great starting point in noticing and understanding ecological changes. In this article