Xerces Society logo

March 26, 2024 | View as Webpage

flowers in grass

With spring arriving, it's tempting to begin working on our yards and gardens. But clearing debris & trimming plants too soon can actually harm bees, butterflies, & other important pollinators!


Even if you do see some bees buzzing on early blooms, they still need cover during chilly nights and heavy spring showers. Other species will wait to emerge until much warmer days, well into May.


So when can you unleash your itchy green thumbs and reach for the rake? That answer can vary based on location and annual climate trends. Check out our blog below. 

For Pollinators' Sakes, Don’t Spring into Garden Cleanup Too Soon!


Early spring garden cleanup can disrupt critical invertebrate habitat and leave pollinators out in the cold. Our guidelines will help you determine when cleaning up won't bug the pollinators in your space.


Learn more

Some butterflies overwinter as pupae, or chrysalides, attached to brush, dead plants, and fallen leaves.

Despite a Lower Peak Season, Western Monarchs Start Spring in Higher Numbers than 2023


Migratory western monarchs underwent a 28% seasonal decrease this winter before dispersing from overwintering sites.


Learn more

monarch butterfly

Job postings

We're hiring! Feel free to take a look and share with your network. All applications must be submitted through our online application portal.



Upcoming events

March 28

In The Life of the Bumble Bee Queen

Webinar

April 8

In The Life of Marvelous Mollusks

Webinar

May 23

In The Life of Nocturnal Pollinators

Webinar

View all events

The Xerces Society is a donor-supported nonprofit organization that protects our world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats.


Your tax-deductible donation will help grow and sustain that essential work.

Donate

Become a member

Renew membership

Fundraise

Donation mailing address:

The Xerces Society

PO Box 97387

Washington DC, 20090-7387

Donation and membership questions:

[email protected]

855-232-6639 (option 2)

Photo credits from top, left:

Karin Jokela; Vicki DeLoach, Flickr; Candace Fallon 

Copyright © 2024 The Xerces Society

Facebook  X  Instagram  Youtube