Status of Pollinators in North America edited by Committee on the Status of Pollinators in North America and NRC Pollinators. 2007. illus. figs. 307 p. gr8vo. Paper bd.

Insects, birds, bats, and other animalsthat carry pollen from the male to the female parts of flowers for plant reproductionare an essential part of natural and agricultural ecosystems throughout North America. For example, most fruit, vegetable, and seed crops and some crops that provide fiber, drugs, and fuel depend on animals for pollination. This book provides evidence for the decline of some pollinator species in North America, including America s most important managed pollinator, the honeybee, as well as some butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds. For most managed and wild pollinator species, however, population trends have not been assessed because populations have not been monitored over time. In addition, for wild species with demonstrated declines, it is often difficult to determine the causes or consequences of their decline. This book outlines priorities for establishes a framework for conservation and restoration of pollinator species and communities.