According to a new report by the Xerces Society, entitled "How Neonicotinoids Can Kill Bees" this common class of pesticides has an unintended effect on many species of bees. Neonicotinoids are neuro-active insecticides, which are chemically similar to nicotine. Products containing Neonicotinoids include:
- Acetamiprid.
- Clothianidin.
- Dinotefuran.
- Imidacloprid.
- Nitenpyram.
- Thiocloprid.
- Thiamethoxam
Per this report, "Neonicotinoids are a group of insecticides used widely on farms and in urban landscapes. They are absorbed by plants and can be present in pollen and nectar, making them toxic to bees. Four years ago there was uncertainty about the impact these insecticides were having on bees. Research published since then clearly shows how neonicotinoids are killing bees or changing their behaviors. In this report, we present an overview of research that clearly documents neonicotinoid impacts on bees. The report also covers what can be inferred from existing research, and identifies knowledge gaps that will need to be filled to allow for better-informed decisions about the future use and regulation of these chemicals." A summary of this report, and a graphic on how these chemicals move through the environment, is included on the Commission's website.
The Conservation Commissions strongly encourages residents to refrain from using these chemical for pest management on their lawns and gardens.
