Why You Should Always Leave a Spoonful of Sugar in Your Backyard Before Heading Out

Although many people think of bees as nothing more than pesky insects that ruin picnics, the truth is that these tiny creatures are essential to our survival—and they are rapidly going extinct.

Bees play a critical role in feeding 90% of the world’s population by pollinating many of the crops we rely on for food. 

Without them, life as we know it would be impossible. Despite their small size, bees are indispensable to our ecosystem.

You don’t need to be an environmental activist to recognize the importance of protecting the planet. Each of us has a responsibility to help preserve the environment for future generations, and together we can make a difference.

British zoologist and television presenter David Attenborough, who many people will recognize by his distinctive voice, has spoken out about the urgent need to save bees. On Facebook, he warned, "If bees disappeared from the face of the Earth, humans would have only four years left to live." While Attenborough is not the first to sound this alarm, his message is a stark reminder that this is a serious issue we must address.

Facebook / David Attenborough

Bees pollinate roughly one-third of the food humans consume, and yet their numbers have dropped by a third over the last five years. However, there is something simple we can all do to help.

David Attenborough suggests a small but powerful action: mix some sugar and water, and leave it outside in your backyard.

This simple solution can help revive exhausted bees that may appear dead or dying but are actually just out of energy and unable to make it back to their hive.

Attenborough explains, "A sugar-water solution can help revive a tired bee. Mix one tablespoon of water with two teaspoons of white granulated sugar, and place it on a spoon for the bee to drink from." Spreading the word about this small action can raise awareness and help more people get involved in saving bees.

Facebook / David Attenborough

Another way to support bee populations is by planting flowers on your balcony or letting wildflowers grow in a part of your backyard. The local bees will love it, and you’ll be doing your part to support both bees and the ecosystem.