There’s something deeply endearing about bumblebees. Just try watching one of these big fuzzy friends blunder from flower to flower and not smile.
But bumblebee populations have been in steep decline — you’re nearly 50% less likely to see a bumblebee, no matter the part of the country you’re in, than you were in 1974.
These charming insects need help.
Many bumblebees at risk of extinction
There are 49 different species of bumblebees in the U.S. and over a quarter of them are facing some degree of extinction risk.
Two species have been placed on the U.S. Endangered Species List. One of them, the Franklin’s bumblebee, has not been observed by scientists since 2006.
Though still not listed as endangered, the American bumblebee also has experienced significant decline, having already disappeared from eight states, including Maine, New Hampshire and Oregon. Across the country, meadows and gardens that once buzzed with dozens of bumblebees have gone silent. Where did all the bumblebees go?
More work is needed to protect the bees
Much of this loss is attributed to a class of bee-killing pesticides called neonicotinoids, or “neonics.” These potent neurotoxins attack the nervous systems of bees, causing shaking, paralysis and eventually death. They also damage the brains of baby bees fed contaminated pollen.
At Environment America, we are doing everything in our power to ensure bumblebees keep buzzing for years to come.
We’ve already succeeded in restricting neonics in 12 states, and are petitioning the Fish and Wildlife Service to extend endangered species protections to more native bees including the American bumblebee.
All our work relies upon the actions and donations of our supporters. But this is only the beginning.
With the help of bee-lovers across the country, we can protect these special insects so they can continue to charm us for generations to come. Are you with us? Donate today.
