Nature Night-The Importance of Insects

Insects play major roles in keeping the natural world healthy and functioning. Not only do they feed (and eat) many other animals, but insects also cycle nutrients, aerate soil, decompose decaying matter, and help pollinate over 80% of the world’s flowering plants, including many of our crops. Despite their importance, recent evidence suggests that between 10-40% of insects are at risk of disappearing. These declines are most clearly documented in charismatic insects such as butterflies, bumble bees, and tiger beetles. Join Deschutes Land Trust and Dr. Tara Cornelisse for a talk on the importance of insects in the natural world. Dr. Cornelisse will share details on the role that insects play in nature, major challenges that insects face, and the stories of some rare and some common insects you are likely to encounter in Central Oregon. Dr. Cornelisse will also offer actions you can take to enjoy and protect insects in your own backyard.