Winter warmth wakes bumblebees early as climate threatens survival
Bumblebees have awakened from their winter hibernation earlier than expected due to climate change and a warm winter, according to ecologists from Buglife. Unfortunately, the population of these vital insects is declining worldwide.
Key pollinators like bees and bumblebees typically enter a period of winter dormancy from winter to spring. However, some bumblebees have already awakened. Ecologists from the charitable organization Buglife, cited by the BBC, report that bumblebees have begun nesting in the middle of winter due to climate change. Naturalists have observed active bumblebee workers in Aberdeen and the Highlands region of Scotland during mild winter weather in recent weeks.
Bumblebees that have begun nesting may not survive until spring
Naturalists highlight that bumblebee nests are particularly vulnerable to destruction due to the scarcity of flowers and the possibility of returning cold temperatures. Paul Hetherington from Buglife, quoted by the BBC, states that the presence of active workers means not only have queens awakened from hibernation, but they have also started building new nests.
He notes that at least two of the 25 British bumblebee species may have begun nest-building earlier than usual. The ecological organization also indicated that previous studies confirmed the presence of bumblebees and honeybees between Christmas and New Year's in various regions of the United Kingdom, including the Scottish Highlands.
The role of bees and bumblebees is invaluable for the survival of humanity
Ecologists suggest that climate change is a driving factor behind the global decline in bumblebees and bees, key pollinators typically resting from winter to spring. It's important to remember that these pollinators are crucial for producing one-third of the world's food, as they pollinate up to 77 percent of plant species that form the basis of plant-based food production. Their role is, therefore, invaluable for the survival of humanity. Without their assistance, legume plants (such as beans, peas, or broad beans), fruits like apples, raspberries, strawberries, as well as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, will struggle to blossom.
Specialists warn that the disappearance of bees could lead to the extinction of humans within four years. UN data shows that insect pollination is required for 84 percent of the 264 plant species cultivated in Europe, with 90 percent of those pollinated exclusively by bees and bumblebees. During the summer, pollinators that act as workers live for just 40 days, producing only 0.02 teaspoons of honey during that time.
Unfortunately, the population of these crucial insects is declining globally due to climate change. Experts point to a phenomenon called Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), which is dramatically impacting entire bee colonies. Even now, the reduction in insect pollinators is causing significant losses in agriculture and medicine and bringing adverse consequences for the natural environment.
