There are a lot of phobias in the world; some are prevalent (such spiders, snakes, and heights), while others are so uncommon that most people who aren’t afflicted by them are left scratching their heads.
Bees are the thing I’m afraid of. Although anything that buzzes and has the potential to sting qualifies, I should clarify that bees are by far the main source of my fear. You might wonder, why? If I was aware of that possibility, I may potentially find a means to get over my unreasonable fear.
Now, my fear had no boundaries when I was a small child. Really, and I hate to say it, but if I could have clicked my fingers to eradicate bees from the planet, I most likely would have.
With the benefit of hindsight, and a great lot more experience and understanding, of course, I know now that would have been a very foolish idea. If I had believed I had these divine abilities and wiped off bees, I would have essentially condemned humanity to a same fate.
As you can see, bees are extremely important to our environment. According to estimates from the United Nations Environment Programme, 71 of the 100 crop species that provide at least 90% of the food on Earth are pollinated by our buzzing companions.
With that knowledge in hand, along with the knowledge that I didn’t develop into a psychotic adult, I now have a newfound respect for bees. Even though I might flee, waving my arms, if one lands on my knee on a summer’s day, I recognize the significance of their role.

Credit / Shutterstock – Victoria Elizabeth Palmer
Sadly, a little research will outline the rather upsetting facts about the problems bees are facing. As per the Center for Biological Diversity, as much as 40% of bee species are currently vulnerable to extinction.
With that in mind, it seems like a good idea that everyone knows the simple steps they can take to help the bee population out – particularly in and around urban areas.
World famous biologist and conservationist David Attenborough suggests placing a spoonful of sugary water in your backyard. It might not seem like much, but the mixture can actually revive exhausted bees, giving them the energy to keep going where they otherwise might die.
In such cases – where you may come across a bee seemingly lifeless on the ground– it’s often because the poor thing lacks the energy to return to its hive. The solution should be made up of two tablespoons of white, granulated sugar and one tablespoon of water.

Credit / Shutterstock – Ian Murdoch
Want to do even more? Well, it turns out you can. Again, these are all incredibly easy things to do, but something as simple as placing flowers on your balcony or allotting a certain area of your yard for wildflowers to take over can be of great assistance. Bees will benefit from the nectar such flowers offer, thus helping the local ecosystem.
So, if you ever see your partner, spouse, or kids laying out a spoonful of sugar, leave them to it! Better yet, place your own spoon outside and play your role in helping bees.