The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided to end their use of neonicotinoids to save the pollinating bees and butterflies. The insecticide resembles nicotine and kills a variety of pests. It has also been proven deadly to the environment.
But it’s going to take time. For example, by 2016, only Region 1 (Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon and Washington) will see neonicotinoids completely phased out.
There are seven chemicals in the neonicotinoid group and they are known to harm insects birds and bees. They may be harmful to other animals. They bind to the nervous system and the effects are irreversible. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said they "inadvertently" use neonics on agricultural crops.