World Bee Day: Why bees matter and how we can help

May 20th was World Bee Day, a day set aside recognize one of nature’s tiniest yet mightiest heroes: the bee! Also, here in Canada, May 29th is the Day of the Honeybee and as an avid gardener I’m definitely good with this – bee day should actually be every day! This is because bees and other pollinators play a vital role in our ecosystems and food systems, and at this time they’re facing serious challenges.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate bees, learn why they’re important, and discover simple ways we can protect them—plus, you’ll find instructions for a ‘sweet’ bee-themed craft for kids at the end!

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Why bees are so important

Bees are essential to both natural ecosystems and human agriculture. As pollinators, they transfer pollen between flowers, allowing plants to reproduce and bear fruit.

“Nearly 90% of the world’s wild flowering plant species depend, entirely, or at least in part, on animal pollination, along with more than 75% of the world’s food crops and 35% of global agricultural land. Not only do pollinators contribute directly to food security, but they are key to conserving biodiversity.”

United Nations

Without bees, many of the foods we rely on—like apples, almonds, berries, cucumbers, and even coffee—would become far less available and more expensive. Beyond food crops, bees also sustain the habitats of countless wildlife species by supporting plant biodiversity. Their work contributes to soil health, clean air, and the overall balance of nature. In short, bees are a cornerstone of life on Earth. Their well-being is directly tied to our own, making their protection not only a conservation issue but a human one too.

The buzz about bee decline

Despite their vital role in ecosystems and agriculture, bees are experiencing alarming population declines worldwide. Several key factors contribute to this trend—each impacting bees in unique but interconnected ways:

• Pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, are widely used in agriculture and are highly toxic to bees. They affect bees’ nervous systems, impairing memory, navigation, and foraging behavior, which can lead to colony collapse (Science Direct).
• Habitat loss from urban development, intensive farming, and monoculture cropping reduces the availability of diverse flowers and nesting sites. Without access to varied pollen sources, bees struggle to maintain strong immune systems and colonies (Pollinator Partnership).
• Climate change alters flowering times and weather patterns, creating mismatches between when bees are active and when flowers bloom. Unpredictable temperature extremes and weather events also disrupt bees’ life cycles and foraging opportunities (IPBES, 2016).
• Parasites and diseases, such as the Varroa destructor mite, infect honey bee colonies and spread deadly viruses. These mites weaken bees and can cause entire hives to collapse if left unmanaged.

Together, these stressors create a “perfect storm” that threatens bee populations globally—especially when multiple pressures act at once. Protecting bees requires a multifaceted response, including changes in land use, pesticide regulation, climate action, and increased public awareness.

How we can help the bees

Even small actions can make a big difference for bees! Here are some bee-friendly tips for your garden, community, or daily habits:

1. Plant Bee-Friendly Flowers: Choose native plants that bloom at different times of the year.
2. Avoid Pesticides: Especially those containing neonicotinoids, which are harmful to pollinators, as shared abovce.
3. Support Organic and Local Farms: As they’re more likely to use bee-safe practices.
4. Leave Some “Wild”: Let part of your yard grow naturally, or create a small pollinator garden.
5. Provide Water: A shallow dish with pebbles and water gives bees a safe place to drink, particularly in hot weather.
6. Spread the Word: Educate others about the importance of bees and how they can help.

Bee craft for kids: Make a paper plate bee!

Crafting is a great way to get kids excited to learn about bees! Try this simple bee-themed activity:

Supplies:

• 1 paper plate
• Yellow and black paint or markers
• Googly eyes
• Glue
• Scissors
• White or wax paper (for wings)
• Pipe cleaners (for antennae)

Instructions:

1. Paint the paper plate yellow and let it dry.
2. Add stripes with black paint or marker across the body.
3. Cut out wings from white or wax paper and glue them to the back.
4. Stick on googly eyes and draw a smile.
5. Add antennae by twisting pipe cleaners and gluing them on top.
6. Let your bee dry and then display it proudly!

Every bee counts

Bees may be small, but their impact is huge. Whether you’re planting flowers, participating in ‘No Mow May’, or making a cute bee craft with kids and teaching them a bit about the world around us, every effort helps.

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