Vox Pop - Birds need insects — You can help

Vox Pop

The current dramatic decline in bird numbers is in step with the decline in insect numbers. The best scientific population studies from respected groups like the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology estimate that North America has about 30% fewer birds in the last 50 years a loss of 3 billion birds! The loss of insects is even greater and is a contributing factor to the decline in birds. Those of us around for a few years remember when the windshield was plastered with insects after a short trip.

Insects provide high energy and high protein food that many birds need especially this time of year when they are feeding their fast-growing nestlings. Even hummingbirds pick up critical insects when they visit flowers. Besides total numbers, a healthy environment needs a variety of different species - called “biodiversity” or “species richness”. A ton of mosquitoes does not make up for the diversity many birds need.

The critical task of saving the plants and animals in our environment is a LOCAL need. The impact that we have in our own backyards is huge. Even devoting 10% of a yard to practices that support insects and birds will make a big difference. Practices include not using pesticides, leaving some areas of leaf litter, and using native plants.

The theme this year for World Migratory Bird Day is Insects and Birds. Our local Chequamegon Bird Club will be providing more information about saving our insects and birds, and host guided bird and insect walks. Get more details from info@chequamegonbirdclub.org.

— Scott Stalheim, Medford