Protect Insects, Protect Biodiversity:

Insects are essential components of food webs and ecosystem services. Many migratory birds, bats, and even certain fish species rely on insects as a primary food source. However, it is becoming more and more evident that we are experiencing a fast decline in insect populations across the globe, in many cases driven by factors such as land-use change, climate change, and pollution. This decline poses a significant threat, not only to insects themselves but also to the animals that depend on them for survival.

Insects contribute to various ecosystem functions, including pollination, nutrient cycling, and pest control. Their presence is vital for maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems. These shifts that we can observe in their populations has an impact on many foos chains, threatening the species that rely on them, including our beloved migratory birds.

In BCOMING we often discuss the dilution effect, a phenomenon where increased biodiversity can reduce the transmission of diseases. Insects play a key role here—by supporting balanced ecosystems, they help maintain this protective effect. A diverse range of species can dilute the presence of pathogens, protecting both wildlife and human populations from emerging diseases. In contrast, a decline in biodiversity can pose a threat, as certain resilient host species  (larger animals which pathogens can use to live in and reproduce) may dominate, becoming efficient disease reservoirs. This escalation in disease reservoirs makes the risk of disease transmission to other species and even humans more likely.

When it comes biodiversity conservation and restoration efforts, protecting insects becomes crucial. The decline of insect populations could disrupt food chains and worsen the health of ecosystems, ultimately increasing our vulnerability to zoonotic diseases that can spill over from animals to humans. This is where BCOMING steps in. By trying to better understand and preserve biodiversity, we not only support the health and balance of our ecosystems but also lower the risk of certain infectious diseases.

World Migratory Bird Day is the perfect occasion to reflect on the important role that insects play in ecosystems, illustrating how the health of one species can have a deep impactat in others. By marking days like this, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of biodiversity's critical role in health, resilience, and environmental sustainability. We hope to inspire more people to see the bigger picture and recognise the importance of initiatives like this one. Together, we can work toward a safer, healthier future for all.