Bees are powerful little engines of the agricultural economy. Apart from their importance to our food supply, bees are also crucial to the environment.
A third of food production on our planet depends on animals to help pollinate crops. As pollinators, bees play a part in every aspect of the ecosystem.
These humble little insects support the growth of flowers, trees, and other plants, which serve as food and shelter for other creatures in nature. Bees contribute to complex, interconnected ecosystems that help a diverse number of different species to co-exist.
Yet, the sad reality is that the numbers of bees around the world is declining at an alarming rate.
It turns out that it is not our fault only, as our bees are killed off by numerous changes, with parasites, pesticides, and infections, being the main three of them.
Climate change causes some flowers to bloom earlier or later than normal, so at the beginning of the season, bees are left with fewer food sources. Bees also suffer habitat loss from development, abandoned farms, and the reduced number and diversity of bee-friendly flowers.
Colony collapse disorder (CCD) kills bees in the U.S. and Europe. Many believe pesticides are the main culprit as they have destroyed the resistance of bees, and they now are no longer strong enough to fight off the parasites and infections that are killing them.
Therefore, we need to take action and work together to protect this extremely important species.
Bumblebees are one of the most hard-working little beings in Nature, and due to their size, shape, and ability to vibrate vigorously, these cheerful insects are very effective at pollinating certain crops.
Yet, during their busy days, they often need to rest and refresh, and photographers caught them napping.
The following photos show these engaged little fellows asleep in flowers with pollen all over their little furry bee butts. Scroll down to take a close look at these crafty intelligent creatures while enjoying a short siesta.
They are just adorable!
Sources:
www.pthomeandgarden.com
www.sustainweb.org
www.buzznick.com
Comments