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We're Big on Bugs
(and all other wildlife)
Since the 1970s, we've lost nearly 40% of our insects worldwide. Not insect species - insects altogether. That should alarm you, even if our multi-legged friends tend to freak you out. Unnecessary pesticide use and habitat loss have caused sharp declines in over 2/3rds of all insect species. We are winning the war on insects, but we need to stop fighting.
Believe it or not, humans need bugs to survive. Small insects like mosquitos, ants, and flies feed larger insects, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Caterpillars are the main food source for important pollinator birds. Bees, butterflies, moths, and birds all help plants spread and re-grow every year.
Without these creatures, we can't produce enough food to survive. This is why it's so important to grow native plants and maintain your yard responsibly. Do your part and help save the bugs!
01
Xerces Society for Inverterbrates
There are tons of ways you can support pollinators in your yard, even if you can't dig in the dirt.
A Walnut Sphinx (Amorpha juglandis) moth in my dill pot this fall.
02
Xerces Society for Invertebrates
Use the databases from the Xerces Society to find the best plants to support the insects in your area.
A bee and spider co-exist peacefully on a prairie sunflower (Helianthus petiolaris) in central Austin.
03
National Wildlife Federation
Find and buy regionally sourced, ecologically significant native plants through the National Wildlife Federation's Garden for Wildlife project.
Gayfeather or Blazing Star Liatris (Liatris spicata) at the LBJ Wildflower Center.
04
The Xerces Society or Invertebrates
Learn safe, eco-friendly ways to manage problem insects in your yard. (Hint: you don't have as many as you think)
An orb weaver spider at the LBJ Wildflower Center getting ready to catch a post-dinner sweet treat. Relatable.