This new project, launching in May 2020, will help the Town of Annapolis Royal demonstrate how Town's and other municipalities can serve as leaders in efforts to conserve biodiversity, starting at the foundation of the ecosystem. Through a partnership with Clean Annapolis River Project the Town will work to become a "bug friendly community".

Unfortunately, many people have negative perceptions about many types of "bugs", often thinking first of destructive invasive pests, instead of  the important role bugs play in our ecosystems. While bees and butterflies tend to be darlings of the "bug" world, other pollinators such as flies and beetles are not given their due recognition. We want to work to dispel negative myths and change attitudes in order foster biodiversity stewardship of all species (not just the pretty ones). 

Recent studies in Canada have demonstrated that we are experiencing both a decline in insect biodiversity and a decline in insect abundance. In Nova Scotia there are 49 species of insect listed by the Atlantic Conservation Data Centre as "critically imperiled", meaning they are vulnerable to extirpation from the province. Several of these species are also listed federally as Species at Risk including the Macropsis Cuckoo Bee (Endangered), Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee (Endangered), Monarch (Endangered), and Yellow Banded Bumble Bee (Vulnerable).

Insects are the building blocks for complex ecosystems, forming the base of food chains. Aerial insectivores, the group of birds that "feed on the wing", are experiencing some of the most rapid population declines across Canada. The conservation and recovery of insect populations will play a direct role in helping these species.The Town of Annapolis Royal  and surrounding area includes several outstanding habitat features including the Annapolis basin and estuary, French Basin Marsh and the Allain's Creek Salt Marsh, one of the largest remaining areas of salt marsh in southwestern Nova Scotia. As a result, Annapolis Royal still supports  several species of aerial insectivores, including: Chimney Swift (Endangered), Tree Swallow, Barn Swallow (Endangered), and Bank Swallow (Endangered).

Project Activities:

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We are currently reviewing our summer 2020 work plan to adapt it to Provincial guidelines and precautions being taken as a result of COVID-19. At this point in time we are not able to schedule any in-person education or outreach activities, but we will continue to adapt as the situation changes. Stay tuned for updates. 

1. Pollinator habitat creation and enhancement on Town owned and managed lands; 

2. Support for local residents and business owners to create pollinator gardens and implement landscaping practices that support a wide range of biodiversity; 

3. Improved understanding of biodiversity in the Town of Annapolis Royal through a citizen science program;

4. The creation of a guide to the "bugs"of Annapolis Royal using data collected by citizen science volunteers; 

5. Educational programs for local community members, students and visitors to raise awareness about the importance of insects and highlight the biodiversity and habitats found within the Town of Annapolis Royal.