Bumblebees wake early from hibernation amid climate concerns
Bumblebees have awakened from their winter hibernation earlier than usual. Ecologists from Buglife attribute this to climate change and a mild winter. Unfortunately, the population of these crucial insects is declining globally.
Important pollinators such as bees and bumblebees typically hibernate from autumn to spring. However, some have already awakened. Ecologists from the charitable organisation Buglife have noted that bumblebees have begun nesting in the middle of winter due to climate change, as reported by the BBC. Naturalists observed active bumblebee workers in Aberdeen and the Highlands region of Scotland during recent weeks of mild winter weather.
Bumblebees that have begun nesting may not survive until spring
Naturalists warn that bumblebee nests are at risk of being destroyed due to the lack of available flowers and the possibility of cold temperatures returning. Paul Hetherington from Buglife highlighted to the BBC that the presence of active workers signifies not only that queens have awakened but also that they've started building new nests.
He notes that at least two of the 25 British bumblebee species may have commenced nest-building early. Previously, studies have confirmed the presence of bumblebees and honeybees between Christmas and New Year in various parts of the United Kingdom, including the Scottish Highlands.
The role of bees and bumblebees is invaluable for the survival of humanity
Ecologists believe that climate change is contributing to the global decline in the number of bumblebees and bees, which are vital pollinators, usually hibernating from autumn to spring. It's important to remember that these pollinators are critical for producing one-third of the world's food. Bees and bumblebees pollinate up to 77 percent of plant species essential for plant-based food production. Their role is, therefore, invaluable for human survival. Without their aid, plants such as legumes (beans, peas, or broad beans), fruits like apple trees, raspberries, strawberries, as well as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, common in our diet, cannot flourish.
Specialists warn that the disappearance of bees could lead to human extinction within four years following their loss. UN data reveals that insect pollination is necessary for 84 percent of the 264 plant species cultivated in Europe, with 90 percent predominantly pollinated by bees and bumblebees. During summer, pollinators that work live for only about 40 days, producing just 0.02 teaspoons of honey in that period.
Regrettably, the population of these vital insects is declining worldwide, exacerbated by climate change. Experts highlight a phenomenon known as Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), which severely impacts entire bee populations. Currently, the reduction in insect pollinators is leading to notable losses in agricultural and medical sectors and is causing detrimental effects on the natural environment.
