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Bugs

I’ve been watching bugs and thinking about bugs a lot recently. I’ve noticed a sharp decline in the general population of insects, everything: lightning bugs, bees, butterflies and even ants. It has been particularly noticeable this season. Some say that the weather this spring affected the number of bugs that hatched. Others point to climate change or pesticides. I just know that there are a lot less bugs this season than there were last year.

Another thing I know is that we the people are not concerned enough about the decline in animal populations, be they frogs, bees or hummingbirds. Even the loss of one seemingly insignificant animal can disrupt an entire ecosystem. If the mice die out, the wolves and foxes starve. If the dragon flies die off, the population of mosquitoes explodes. Ultimately, the loss of species affects the quality of human life.

If you want to care more about this but don’t know where to start, I have a suggestion: go outside. Find a place that has green in it, a yard, a park or anywhere with plants, and begin to observe. How many different animals can you find? How does the vegetation look. Listen. Do you hear crickets, tree frogs or cicadas? How many bird songs do you hear? Can you identify the birds?

Awareness is the beginning. I know in my own case that as I became aware of the multitude of life forms around me, I became fascinated with it. I found ways to feed the birds, a most elemental form of communication. We planted flowers and herbs that draw and nourish pollinator insects like bees and butterflies. I experienced delight in knowing that I was helping Mother Earth, at least in my small corner of her. I experience delight every day in just watching my varmint buddies. I also experience concern because I know I need to do what I can to care for life itself. Each of us do.



Syd Weedon
8/25/2024