Insect Week 23 - 29 June 2024
Insect Week is an annual event organised by the Royal Entomological Society
Its aim is to highlight to every person how remarkable and valuable insects are, and to enrich the world with insect science.
If you would like to join in the celebrations there are plenty of Learning Resources available on the Insect Week website.
Leafcutter Ants © Marcus Clackson Photography
Insects are small six-legged animals with three main body parts: head, thorax and abdomen. Typically, they have one or two pairs of wings and antennae. Insects are incredibly diverse and can be found in nearly every habitat on Earth!
Swallowtail
Why are insects important!
Insects are crucial for pollination, they help decompose organic matter and are a source of food for many animals. They help control pest populations and contrubute to biodiversity, playing vital roles in ecosystems.
Why is it important to protect them!
Protecting insects is essential because they support ecosystems through pollination, decomposition and pest control. Thier decline threatens biodiversity, food security and ecological balance. Conserving insects ensures environmental sustainability and resillience.
Become a member or volunteer with an organisation or project and make your garden insect friendly.
Here are some ideas of how you can be involved:
Become a member of Butterfly Conservation, or volunteer with your local branch.
Donate, volunteer, fundraise and make your garden bumblebee friendly with Bumblebee Conservation.
Take a look at Buglife.org and see how you can help them, and get involved with their projects and campaigns.
Save Homerus
To celebrate Insect Week, Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm has joined forces with IABES to help SAVE HOMERUS!
International Association of Butterfly Exhibitors & Suppliers
Papilio homerus, the Homerus Swallowtail is one of the largest butterfly species in the world and is native to Jamacia.
It's population has been significantly threatened by the destruction of its habitat due to deforestation, human encroachment and illegal collection.
Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm are members of IABES, who in turn support conservation efforts to protect and restore the Homerus Swallowtail's habitat, to ensure the survival of this stunning species.
Visitors to the Butterfly Farm may donate their change to the SAVE HOMERUS project in the 'spinner', located by reception in the Education Area.
