Bumblebees and climate change.
by Lewis, 13 August, 2015, 2 comments
Bumblebees are important pollinating agents of food crops (especially of fruit - like blueberries) and also of many wild flowers. Some sources have estimated that insect pollination is key to the production of a third of the foods and drinks that we consume.
Unfortunately, bumblebee species have been in decline for some time; indeed, during the course of the 20th century, the short haired bumblebee became extinct in the United Kingdom. The reason for the decline in bumblebee numbers (and species) is not clear but habitat loss and the extensive / intensive use of pesticides have been cited.
However, recent analysis by research scientists* in the States, Canada and Europe indicates that global warming is a key factor. Read more...