Agricultural intensification, human development, and expansive lawns with increased use of non-native plants can lead to the reduction or elimination of important food sources and nesting habitats for pollinators. The rapid spread of human development can also result in habitat fragmentation, which can negatively impact pollinator populations by reducing their carrying capacity across the landscape.
Impacts on Pollinators
The loss of native plants and the introduction of non-native species can have a significant impact on the availability of food sources for pollinators. Many native plants are adapted to provide nectar and pollen at specific times of the year, which is crucial for the life cycles of pollinators. When these plants are replaced with non-native species, the pollinators may not have access to the resources they need, leading to a decline in their populations.
Additionally, the use of pesticides and other chemicals in intensive agricultural practices can directly harm pollinators, either through exposure or by reducing the availability of their food sources. This, combined with the loss of nesting habitats due to habitat fragmentation, can further contribute to the decline of pollinator populations.