A pollinator is any animal that transfers pollen from an anther (pollen-producing organ) of a plant to the stigma (pollen-receiving organ) of another plant, fertilising the plant and allowing it to produce seeds.  When we think about pollinators, we tend to just picture honeybees and bumblebees, but there are in fact lots of different types of pollinating insects.    

Hoverflies are an important but often overlooked group: these are a type of fly, often brightly coloured, which are commonly mistaken for wasps or bees, although they are stingless. 

Solitary bees are another group of valuable pollinators.  Although honeybees and bumblebees live together in colonies, most bee species nest individually in burrows. 

We love watching butterflies flit with their fabulous wings, but often forget about their nocturnal counterparts, moths.  Both butterflies and moths play crucial roles as pollinators.

Many other insect groups, including wasps, beetles, flies and ants pollinate plants.  Even birds and bats can be pollinators, particularly in tropical areas.

Scientists estimate over 80% of flowering plants, including human crops, rely on pollinators for their reproduction and survival.  Learning how to protect pollinating insects is crucial not only for the natural world, but for ourselves.