Frances Tophill’s tips for a pollinator paradise

Biodiversity is a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy ecosystems, and the humble bumblebee plays a significant role in this. According to new research, bumblebees have been crowned the nation’s favourite back garden insect, claiming two-thirds of those living in Basildon and East Thurrock votes (66%). The cute, striped pollinators, integral to UK biodiversity, were nearly seven times more popular than their closest rival, with snails claiming just 11% of the vote, and spiders taking third spot (7%).

But not everyone is a fan of insects. The fear of insects, or entomophobia, is often rooted in evolutionary, cognitive, and social factors. Evolutionarily, we (humans) may have developed an instinctive fear of insects due to their potential to cause harm through bites, stings, or disease transmission. Cognitive factors, such as the perceived unpredictability and uncontrollability of insects, exacerbate this fear. Insects’ erratic movements and unusual appearances can trigger heightened fear responses.

To show their commitment to the Great British Countryside, a limited-edition cask ale for summer called Golden Nectar has been launched at Chef & Brewer pubs across the country. This hoppy thirst-quenching ale donates 20p from every pint sold to a division of The Wildlife Trust. Featuring the image of the nation’s favourite insect, the bumblebee, this hearty golden ale will be available across all 150 country pubs from 28th May until 23rd July – a critical period for British bumblebees as they nest and thrive.

Aston spoke to TV presenter Frances Tophill.

Photo by Jonathan Hanna on Unsplash