Around 1 million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction, many within decades, more than ever before in human history. [/dropshadowbox] This stark finding is from the report released last week from the United Nations Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services. 40% of the known species of bugs face extinction including beetles, flies, moths, butterflies and bees, the result of habitat loss and pesticides. While gardening this season we can be very judicious and possibly even eliminate the use of pesticides like Round Up. We can grow native plants and buy organic produce when possible. Also, insecticides applied to the lawn to kill grubs will kill firefly larvae and broad-spectrum sprays harm adult fireflies that rest on the vegetation. Many lawn companies are now offering organic lawn care options.
