PPC118 | Infographic

As part of PPC118's Bee Special issue, BPCA put together some interesting facts on pollination. 

£690 million worth of crops are pollinated each year in the UK.

Pollination is a crucial part of plant reproduction, and helps maintain a strong, balanced ecosystem. 

There are multiple different types of pollination, such as wind pollination, self-pollination and cross-pollination.

Do you know why some bees buzz? To shake loose hidden pollen! Bees bite the anthers (part of a plant), hold tight, and buzz to get as much pollen out of the flowers as possible. 

It's estimated that 1 in every 3 bites of food is dependent on bee pollination, according to the United Nations Environment Programme. That's some heavy lifting!

“A third of all crops are pollination-dependent, including those used in livestock feed, covering 70 different types of crop and it is vital they are protected."

80% of European wildflowers are pollinated by bees. Wild pollinator populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. However, in the UK, managed honey bee colonies have risen by 40% since 2015.

For some animals, pollination is not their primary role, which is why they're sometimes known as accidental pollinators. Wasps do pollinate but usually pick up less pollen (due to their smooth bodies). Some fly species (like hoverflies) are important in gardens. And even birds, bats and other creatures are pollinators.

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