Support Your Local Pollinator During the Great Southeast Pollinator Census

About 75% of the world’s flowering plants and about 30% of crops rely on pollinators. These vital creatures, including bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, and even some bats, are the unsung heroes of our ecosystems and food supply. However, things like habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and invasive species are all threats to pollinator populations, which are truly essential for both ecological balance and food security. This August, residents of Naples and across Florida have a unique opportunity to contribute to vital scientific research and help protect these essential creatures: participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census.

The Great Southeast Pollinator Census: A Citizen Science Initiative

On August 22nd and 23rd, Floridians are invited to become citizen scientists and participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. This initiative, a collaborative effort involving researchers from various institutions, including Florida Atlantic University (FAU), aims to gather crucial data on pollinator populations across the Southeast. The census provides a snapshot of pollinator health, helping researchers understand the impact of environmental changes and guide conservation efforts.

Participation is simple and requires minimal time commitment. All you need to do is choose one or more flowering plants in your yard, garden, or even a nearby park that attract pollinators. Spend just 15 minutes observing your chosen plant(s) during the census days, carefully counting each instance a pollinator lands on a flower. Then, upload your observations to the online database. This seemingly small contribution makes a significant impact, providing valuable data points for the larger study.

Why is this important for Naples?

Collier County, encompassing the beautiful city of Naples, boasts a diverse range of habitats, from coastal ecosystems to inland prairies, supporting a rich biodiversity of pollinators. Understanding the health of these pollinator populations is crucial for maintaining the ecological integrity of Naples’ unique environment. The data collected during the census will help researchers identify areas requiring conservation attention and inform strategies for protecting pollinator habitats within Collier County, ensuring the continued vibrancy of our local ecosystems.

The impacts extend beyond ecological balance. Naples’ agricultural sector, like many regions, relies heavily on pollinators for successful crop production. Healthy pollinator populations contribute directly to the economic prosperity of the region by ensuring stable yields for local farmers and supporting the agricultural industry.

How to Participate in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census

Participating in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census is easy and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose your observation site: Select a flowering plant in your yard, community garden, or a nearby park. Plants with open flowers that are easily visible are ideal. Consider diverse flowering plants to attract a wider range of pollinators.
2. Choose your observation time: The census takes place on August 22nd and 23rd. Select a time when pollinators are most active, typically during daylight hours, avoiding periods of extreme heat or inclement weather.
3. Observe for 15 minutes: During your 15-minute observation period, carefully count each time a pollinator lands on a flower of your chosen plant(s). Record the type of pollinator (bee, butterfly, hummingbird, etc.) if possible.
4. Record your observations: Use the online data entry form provided by the Great Southeast Pollinator Census organizers. Make sure to accurately record the date, time, location, plant species, and number of each pollinator species observed.
5. Submit your data: Once you have completed your observation, submit your data through the online portal. Your contribution will be added to the larger dataset, helping researchers build a comprehensive picture of pollinator populations.

Types of Pollinators to Look For:

• Bees: Various species of bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees, are crucial pollinators. Observe their behavior carefully, noting their size, color, and any distinguishing features.
• Butterflies: Butterflies, with their colorful wings, are easily recognizable pollinators. Note the species if possible and their activity on the flowers.
• Moths: Many moth species are nocturnal pollinators, so observations might be more fruitful in the evenings (though the census focuses on daytime observations).
• Hummingbirds: These tiny birds are efficient pollinators, hovering near flowers to feed on nectar. Their rapid wingbeats make them easily identifiable.
• Other insects: Various other insects, such as beetles, flies, and wasps, can also contribute to pollination. Record these observations as well.

The Importance of Pollinator Conservation

The decline of pollinator populations poses a significant threat to global biodiversity and food security. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture is a major factor. Pesticide use, particularly neonicotinoids, has devastating effects on pollinator health. Climate change is altering flowering times and disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems, impacting pollinator lifecycles. Invasive species can outcompete native pollinators and disrupt ecological processes.

By participating in the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, residents of Naples and other communities can contribute to a greater understanding of these challenges and contribute to evidence-based conservation efforts. The data collected will help researchers identify crucial habitats and inform strategies to mitigate the threats facing pollinators. It’s a chance to directly impact the future of our environment and food systems.

Consider expanding your participation beyond the census dates. Planting native flowering plants that attract pollinators, avoiding pesticide use in your garden, and supporting pollinator-friendly initiatives are all ways to make a lasting difference. Even something as simple as creating a small pollinator garden in your backyard can provide a vital habitat for these essential creatures. In places like Mizner Park, with its beautiful landscaping, incorporating pollinator-friendly plants could significantly enhance the local ecosystem and contribute to the overall health of the environment.

FAQs

FAQs

Related Articles

• Lee County’s Dunbar High School has earned its reputation as a technology powerhouse
• IMAG History and Science Center celebrates three decades of immersive experiences
• New public charter school in Collier County tailored to autistic students and their families