Honeybees are well-known for pollinating crops and wildflowers but there are many other insects that we rely on in the UK. These others insects are crucial to maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting agriculture and many are even more important than honeybees. Here’s a quick look at some of the other pollinators you might encounter in your garden or on a walk in the park or the countryside.
Bumblebees are bigger and fluffier than honeybees. They are excellent pollinators, especially in cooler climates. They’re some of the first foragers out in the spring, and the first out and about on cool mornings. Bumblebees can be seen buzzing around flowers from early spring to late autumn. They are particularly effective at pollinating crops like tomatoes and strawberries.
Solitary bees, unlike honeybees, do not live in colonies. They are crucial for pollinating many wildflowers and crops. Examples include the red mason bee and the leafcutter bee. These bees often nest in hollow stems or holes in wood, making them easy to attract with bee hotels or simply by being a bit more relaxed about clearing up your garden.
Butterflies and moths are not just beautiful; they’re also important pollinators. Butterflies like the Painted Lady, the Peacock and the Red Admiral are easy to notice when they’re around but moths are also active pollinators, especially at night (though there are many day-flying moths as well).
Hoverflies are often mistaken for bees or wasps because of their yellow and black stripes. They’re excellent pollinators and are also beneficial for controlling garden pests. Hoverflies are attracted to a variety of flowers, especially those with open, flat blossoms.
Beetles are among the oldest pollinators. They are particularly drawn to flowers with strong scents and large, bowl-shaped blooms. While not as efficient as bees, beetles like the soldier beetle contribute to the pollination of several plant species.
What about hornets?
The UK is home to the native European hornet (Vespa crabro), which, despite its fearsome appearance, is less aggressive than common wasps and serves as a valuable pollinator and predator of pest species. However, the invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) poses a significant threat to local ecosystems. Introduced to the UK in 2016, the Asian hornet preys on honeybees and other pollinators, potentially disrupting biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Efforts are ongoing to monitor and control its spread to protect native species and ecosystems.
The BBKA has a very useful video on Asian hornets which you can watch below.
There’s more to pollination than honeybees!
Diverse pollinators are essential for the health of our gardens and farms. By providing a variety of plants and habitats, you can support these vital creatures. Remember, each pollinator has a unique role in the ecosystem, and together they ensure the flourishing of our natural world.