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Flying insect numbers have plunged by 60% since 2004, GB survey finds | Insects

Scientists behind survey of car number plates said drop was ‘terrifying’, as life on Earth depends on insects

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Scientists behind survey of car number plates said drop was ‘terrifying’, as life on Earth depends on insects

Highlights

  • The number of flying insects in Great Britain has plunged by almost 60% since 2004.
  • The scientists behind the survey said the drop was ‘terrifying’, as life on Earth depends on insects.
  • The fall was highest in England, at 65%, with Wales recording 55% fewer insects and Scotland 28% fewer.
  • The next survey will run from June to August, Buglife said.
  • People could help insects by not using pesticides, letting grass grow longer and sowing wildflowers in gardens.
  • If every garden had a small patch for insects, collectively it would probably be the biggest area of wildlife habitat in the world, the group said.