Question 1

What are pollinators?

Accepted Answer

Pollinators are animals that help plants make seeds by moving pollen from one flower to another. Bees, butterflies, birds, and even some bats can be pollinators!

Question 2

Why are pollinators important?

Accepted Answer

Pollinators help plants grow fruits and vegetables that we eat. Without them, many plants wouldn't be able to make the food we need.

Question 3

How do bees pollinate flowers?

Accepted Answer

Bees visit flowers to collect nectar and pollen sticks to their bodies. When they visit the next flower, some of this pollen rubs off and helps the plant make seeds.

Question 4

Do all pollinators fly?

Accepted Answer

Most pollinators, like bees, butterflies, and birds, can fly. However, some, like certain beetles or ants, help pollinate without flying.

Question 5

What do pollinators eat?

Accepted Answer

Pollinators eat nectar, which is a sweet liquid made by flowers. Some, like bees, also eat pollen, which gives them protein.

Question 6

How do flowers attract pollinators?

Accepted Answer

Flowers attract pollinators with bright colors, sweet smells, and tasty nectar. These things tell pollinators, 'Come here, there's food!'

Question 7

What happens if there are no pollinators?

Accepted Answer

Without pollinators, many plants can't make seeds or fruits. This means less food for animals and people to eat.

Question 8

Can wind pollinate plants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wind can help some plants pollinate. Plants like grasses and some trees rely on the wind to carry their pollen.

Question 9

Are all bees pollinators?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all bees help pollinate plants. However, some bees are better at it than others, like honeybees and bumblebees.

Question 10

Do pollinators only work during the day?

Accepted Answer

Most pollinators are active during the day, but some, like bats and moths, work at night. They help pollinate plants that bloom at night.

Question 11

How can we help pollinators?

Accepted Answer

We can help pollinators by planting flowers, avoiding harmful pesticides, and providing safe places for them to live. Leaving some 'wild' areas in gardens also helps.

Question 12

Why do some flowers have a sweet smell?

Accepted Answer

The sweet smell of flowers attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. It's like a sign saying, 'Come get some nectar!'

Question 13

Can people be pollinators?

Accepted Answer

People can help pollinate by using brushes to move pollen from flower to flower. However, natural pollinators do most of the work.

Question 14

Do all plants need pollinators?

Accepted Answer

Not all plants need pollinators. Some plants can make seeds by themselves or rely on the wind to move pollen.

Question 15

What does 'pollen' look like?

Accepted Answer

Pollen is usually a fine, powdery substance that comes in colors like yellow, orange, or white. It's made by flowers to help create seeds.

Question 16

Why do butterflies like flowers?

Accepted Answer

Butterflies like flowers because they get nectar to eat. The bright colors and sweet smell help them find these tasty treats.

Question 17

Can plants be pollinated underwater?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some plants in water rely on the water to help move pollen around. An example is seagrasses, which grow in the ocean.

Question 18

What is nectar?

Accepted Answer

Nectar is a sweet liquid made by flowers. It's like a sugary drink for pollinators and helps attract them to the flowers.

Question 19

Do all flowers have nectar?

Accepted Answer

Not all flowers have nectar, but many do. Those that don't may use other ways, like their scent or color, to attract pollinators.

Question 20

Are there any pollinators in deserts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, deserts have pollinators like bees, birds, and bats. Even in a dry place, these pollinators help plants like cactuses grow.

The Secret Lives of Pollinators - 20 FAQs Explained Simply