Pollinators might be small, but they play a huge role in keeping our planet healthy. They help around 80% of the world's flowering plants reproduce. (Source) Our favorite fruits, vegetables, and beautiful flowers wouldn't exist without them!
Pollinators are also diverse. They include animals like bees, wasps, birds, butterflies, beetles, moths, flies, and even small mammals, like bats. Colorado alone is home to over 1,000 species of bees and 300 species of butterflies.
Unfortunately, some pollinators are declining because of climate change, habitat loss, competition from non-native species, pesticides, and other challenges. (Source) Scientists and advocates are working to change that, but there are things we average Coloradans can do, too! And these activities are great opportunities to get the family outside, dig in the dirt, and connect with nature.
1. Plant a pollinator garden.
Spring is a perfect time to get your garden started. Native plants create habitat offering food and shelter perfectly suited to local pollinators. (Source) And you’re in luck. Generation Wild is giving away free native Wilderflower seed packets. Grab your seeds, your kids, and get planting with these simple tips:
- A sunny area works best.
- First, loosen the soil with a rake.
- Then, scatter the seeds.
- Lightly rake into top 1⁄4'' of soil.
- Keep evenly moist for 4-6 weeks until seeds germinate.
2. Build a cozy bee hotel.
Did you know that not all bees live in hives? Most native bees make their homes in the ground, hollow plant stems, or small tunnels left by other bugs. (Source) You and your kids can create a cozy nesting spot for native bees.
- Pick a sunny patch of undisturbed ground in your yard.
- Skip the mulch and let the soil stay bare. This gives ground-nesting bees the perfect place to dig their tunnels.
- Leave a few small logs or pieces of dead wood around the garden for bees that like to nest in wood.
3. Set up a pollinator watering hole.
Pollinators get thirsty too! You can help them stay hydrated by setting out a shallow dish filled with clean water and a few pebbles or small stones. The pebbles give pollinators a safe place to land and sip without the risk of falling in. Your kids can decorate the water dish with colorful rocks, seashells, or small sticks to make it beautiful and welcoming for tiny visitors. Let them pick the perfect shady spot in the yard to place it, and encourage them to check it regularly. Refill it with fresh water every few days to keep it clean and avoid attracting mosquitoes. (Source)
4. Skip the chemicals.
Pesticides and herbicides can harm pollinators, so it’s best not to use them in your yard or garden (Source). Instead, try using natural pest control methods to keep your plants healthy and pollinator-friendly. Check out these chemical-free pesticide recipes made from organic ingredients you have at home. Get the whole family involved by turning pest control into a fun science activity. Have your kids search for helpful insects like ladybugs, lacewings, or praying mantises that naturally keep pests in check. They can keep a nature journal to track which insects visit your garden.
5. Leave some 'wild' spaces.
Not everything in your yard needs to be perfectly neat and tidy. Nature is wild! Designate a "wild corner" where leaves can accumulate and native plants can grow freely. This kind of space can become a safe and welcoming habitat for pollinators. It’s also a fun opportunity for kids to get creative. They can make signs to mark this special area, like "Pollinator Paradise" or "Butterfly Bungalow.”
Now, get out there and create something bee-autiful!
Helping pollinators at home is a fun way for your family to connect with nature and take care of the environment together. By creating spaces where pollinators can thrive, you're teaching your kids the importance of coexistence and stewardship, while fostering curiosity and creativity.
For more tips on how to get your family outdoors, subscribe to the Generation Wild newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. You can also reach us anytime at info@goco.org.