Plea goes out to farmers and crofters in move to support insect population

A PLEA has gone out to farmers and crofters to help vital insect populations thrive in the wild, amid fears they are fast disappearing from the countryside.

With mounting evidence that pollinating bugs are declining, a new Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service (SFAS) fact sheet has highlighted the importance of invertebrate species such as bees – and the threats including harmful pesticides.

Last month it was revealed that Scotland’s butterflies are in drastic decline with a 70 per cent drop in numbers – the worst crash in a decade.

The annual Big Butterfly Count said Scotland’s drop was twice that of the rest of the UK.

Of the 17 species logged in the

Scottish survey, 10 were found to have declined compared to last year.

The weather, habitat loss and climate change are believed to contribute to the long term drop in numbers.

“Our pollinators, along with many other insects, are in serious decline,” said SFAS.

“They are facing may significant pressures arising from changes in land use, habitat fragmentation, diseases, and pesticides.

“Through a range of considered practices, farmers, crofters, and land managers can provide a lifeline for pollinators and other insects, providing food and habitat resources to support activities such as nesting, foraging, mating, dispersing, and migrating.”

It added: “Starvation is the main reason for pollinator declines. Pollinators require pollen and nectar from March to October so it’s about the continuous supply of pollen throughout this time. Food supply is often short in early spring.

“Pollinators need somewhere to live. Bumblebees require long grass tussocks often at the base of hedges, solitary bees require bare soil or stone walls to nest in.

“All insects require space with no insecticides, herbicides, or fungicides.”