Help Save Pollinators This Giving Tuesday: Support Bees and Butterflies on the Brink of Extinction

On this Giving Tuesday, you have the opportunity to make a real difference for the future of pollinators. These vital creatures—bees, butterflies, and other insects—are responsible for pollinating one-third of the world's food supply. Sadly, many species are rapidly declining. Since 1950, five butterfly species in the U.S. have become extinct, and dozens more are teetering on the brink, according to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation.

“30% fewer butterflies are being seen in yards, farms, and natural areas than there were just 20 years ago,” says Scott Black, executive director of the Xerces Society. Monarch butterflies, in particular, have faced a 90% population decline in North America since the 1990s.

Bees are also facing dire circumstances. A quarter of North America's bumblebee species are at risk of extinction, with bee and butterfly populations decreasing by 1 to 2% every year, according to the National Academy of Sciences.

“This is a critical issue—without these pollinators, our crops and food sources are at risk,” warns Black. The main threats to pollinators include climate change, habitat loss, and harmful pesticide use. Despite these challenges, there is hope.

How You Can Help Pollinators Thrive

You don’t need a large property to help pollinators; even small yards or community gardens can make a big difference. By supporting organizations like the Xerces Society and Pollinator Partnership, you can contribute to efforts that protect pollinators. These groups work with farmers, businesses, governments, and individuals to educate the public on the importance of pollinators and encourage eco-friendly pest control.

Among the programs offered by Pollinator Partnership are the Bee Smart School Garden Kit, an online gardening guide, and Project Wingspan, which focuses on restoring habitats for pollinators. Xerces runs initiatives such as the Bee City USA program and the Pollinator Protection Pledge, helping cities and individuals take action to support pollinator populations.

Make Your Yard a Pollinator Paradise

One of the simplest ways to support pollinators is by planting native wildflowers. Kelly Bills, executive director of Pollinator Partnership, emphasizes that fall and winter can be ideal times for planting. Native flowers provide the food and shelter pollinators need and are easy to care for once established. Bills recommends planting species that will bloom at different times of the year, especially during migration periods when pollinators need extra energy.

When planting, consider adding flowers like salvias, mint, and California poppies—these attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Black also encourages homeowners to reduce turf lawns, which offer little for wildlife, and replace part of them with wildflowers. “Even a small patch can make a big impact,” he says.

Create a Winter Habitat for Pollinators

Another way to help pollinators is by leaving some areas of your yard untidy during the winter. Fallen leaves, dead flower stems, and bare ground provide crucial habitats for bees, butterflies, and moths to overwinter. “Leaves are great for nesting, and some bees even hibernate in hollow stems,” explains Bills.

Rather than shredding leaves, Black suggests raking them into garden beds or thinning them out on your lawn. This helps enrich the soil while providing shelter for overwintering pollinators. You can also leave branches and logs to create more natural spaces for insects.

Say No to Pesticides

Pesticides are a major threat to pollinators. While they may target unwanted insects, they also harm the beneficial species that help maintain a healthy ecosystem. Black suggests that homeowners avoid pesticides for cosmetic reasons and instead adopt non-chemical pest control methods, like planting native plants that attract natural pest predators, such as ladybugs and hoverfly larvae.

Educate and Inspire Your Community

Let your neighbors know about your efforts to support pollinators by using yard signs. Pollinator Partnership offers signs that promote pesticide-free yards, leaving leaves, and other actions to help pollinators. Educating those around you can amplify your impact, as community-wide efforts are far more effective in creating significant habitat restoration.

Become a Citizen Scientist

You can also participate in citizen science programs like Pollinator Partnership’s Project Wingspan or Xerces’ Bumblebee Watch. These programs train volunteers to collect seeds, identify species, and document sightings of pollinators, which helps conservationists focus efforts on areas with rare or declining species.

Support Pollinator-Friendly Farms

One of the most impactful ways to help pollinators is by supporting farmers who use sustainable practices. Look for the “Bee Better Certified” seal on products like blueberries, almonds, and other crops that are grown with pollinator-friendly methods. Additionally, buying organic products helps reduce the use of harmful pesticides in the food chain.

With these actions, you can not only help pollinators but also enhance your own surroundings. Pollinators are essential for our survival, and by taking steps to protect them, you are contributing to a healthier, more sustainable world.