May 20th - Environmental studies - Bees and our Tiny Home

 Part of our Small House planning involves choosing some landscaping that will support bees, birds, and other wildlife.

Honeybees play a critical role in pollination, which helps plants grow, breed, and produce food. However, honeybee populations have been declining over recent years due to various threats. Understanding these challenges is essential to protecting these important insects and the environment.

Major Challenges Facing Honeybees:

• Pesticides: Chemicals like neonicotinoids can harm bees' nervous systems, making it hard for them to navigate or reproduce.
• Habitat Loss: Urban development and monoculture farming reduce the availability of diverse flowering plants and nesting areas.
• Climate Change: Changes in temperature and weather patterns disrupt blooming times and reduce food availability.
• Parasites & Diseases: The Varroa destructor mite is a major parasite that weakens bees by feeding on them and spreading viruses.
• Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD): This mysterious phenomenon causes the sudden disappearance of worker bees, leaving behind a queen and a few nurse bees.

Slides or Google Doc - One slide per question please. Use a picture that reflects and depicts the information. In your question or answer.

1. What is pollination and why is it important?
   
   
2. Name two pesticides that harm bees. How do they affect bee health?
   
   
3. Describe one way climate change affects honeybees.
   

4.  Make a plan for a garden that would support honeybee health. Include:

• A variety of flowering plants (name 3+ species)
• A small water source
• Areas free of pesticides
• A space for wild or native bee nesting
  
• 5.  Explain Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) in your own words.
  
• 6. Why do you think it's important for humans to protect honeybee populations?
  
  7. What actions can farmers or individuals take to help honeybees? List at least two.