UK bees are facing challenges with the upcoming fourth heatwave of the summer and the looming threat of Asian hornets endangering British beehives. Bumblebees, a beloved symbol of British summers, play a crucial role as pollinators supporting natural landscapes and essential food crops.
Due to the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, bumblebee populations in the UK are declining sharply. Recent data from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust indicates a significant decrease in numbers following the record-breaking temperatures of 2022. Three common bumblebee species – red-tailed, buff-tailed, and common carder bumblebees – have seen a decline of 20%, 25%, and 35% respectively. Bees are struggling to fly as temperatures soar, impacting their foraging activities.
Michael Walsh from The Urban Apiarist explains the challenges bees face during heatwaves, where bees divert their energy to cooling the hive rather than foraging. Elevated temperatures above 36 degrees Celsius can lead to the death of young bees and softening of the nest wax. Bees employ strategies like fanning their wings, fetching water, and clustering outside the hive to regulate temperature, but these efforts strain their resources.
The impact of climate change is transforming the UK’s environment, posing a threat to bee populations. The expectation of prolonged and hotter heatwaves poses a double challenge for bees, as the heat also diminishes the availability of flowers for foraging when bees need them the most.
In addition to climate-related challenges, British bees are under threat from Asian hornets. These invasive predators can decimate bee populations outside hives, with each hornet capable of consuming up to 50 bees daily. While Asian hornets have not yet established a permanent presence in the UK, their increasing numbers raise concerns among beekeepers.
A unique solution has emerged to combat Asian hornets: John Childs, an apiarist from Durham, has developed a groundbreaking device called The Hornet Zapper. This device, designed to lure and eliminate Asian hornets, has shown promising results in deterring the predatory insects from attacking beehives.
Unlike European hornets, Asian hornets pose a significant danger to UK honeybees due to their predatory behavior and rapid reproduction rates. Efforts led by organizations like the British Association for Shooting and Conservation aim to identify and eradicate Asian hornet nests to protect native bee populations.
While the threat of Asian hornets looms, proactive measures like reporting sightings and creating bee-friendly environments can help safeguard bee populations. By raising awareness and taking steps to support bee habitats, individuals can contribute to preserving bee diversity and combating the challenges facing these vital pollinators.