Restoring the Little Things that Run the World with Doug Tallamy (Virtual)

Learn about the importance of insects from renowned author Doug Tallamy, followed by a panel of local experts with resources and tips! Gardeners, wildlife enthusiasts, and backyard bird watchers will benefit from this lecture. Doug Tallamy is an entomologist, ecologist, professor, and conservationist well known for his books Nature’s Last Hope: A New Approach to Conservation that Starts in Your Yard and Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants.

A recent UN report predicts that as many as 1 million species will disappear from planet earth because of human activities. Many of these are insects, and nearly all species at risk rely on insects. Insects have already declined 45% since 1974. The alarming part of this statistic is that most people don’t appear to have noticed, despite the fact that a world without insects will be a world without humans! So, how do we create beautiful landscapes brimming with life — landscapes that support the butterflies, caterpillars, bees, and other insects that run the ecosystems we depend on? Tallamy will remind us of the essential roles insects play, and describe the simple changes we must make in our landscapes and our attitudes to keep insects on the ground, in the air, and yes, on our plants. This program is presented by the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia, co-sponsored by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy, Prince William Conservation Alliance, and Plant NOVA Natives. After Tallamy’s presentation, stay with us for a panel of local experts who will share resources and information for applying Tallamy’s teachings in Northern Virginia.

Registration required through the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia website.