Marathon is a formulation of the neonic insecticide, imidacloprid, that’s commonly used on ornamental plants in nurseries, garden centers, and homes across the US. A 2021 University of California paper shows that the application of Marathon, even at 30% of the recommended dose, killed 90% of leafcutter bees.
Bayer’s imidacloprid is one of the most widely used insecticides and belongs to a group of pesticides known as neonics (or neonicitinoids), which target insects’ nervous systems. Following extensive research I present a risk/benefit analysis for imidacloprid. Neonics are often used by default, for example as seed coatings, and yet offer no benefit in many cases. The risks, on the other hand, are sobering and demand immediate action.
Earlier in March, USA Today reported that bestselling Seresto flea collars have been linked to 1700 pet deaths in the US – and that’s just going by the number reported to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); the actual number is expected to be higher. The story originated from Johnathan Hettinger at the Midwest Center for … Continue reading Seresto flea collar & imidacloprid
OK – here’s part two of an impartial investigation into whether neonicotinoids (neoincs) are harmful to honey bees. I have nothing to gain from a position on either side of this debate and have looked into it with an open mind. If you search the scientific literature there are many papers on the subject but … Continue reading Daily Footprint, #16 – Honey: So what exactly is happening to the bees? (Part 2)
In this post I will examine a case often cited by Bayer & Co. as evidence that neonicotinoids are safe for bees. This is part two of an impartial investigation into whether neonicotinoids (neoincs) are harmful to honey bees. I have nothing to gain from a position on either side of this debate and have … Continue reading Examination of evidence that neonicotinoids are safe for bees
The Green Stars Project 