Rising temperatures and pesticides drive decline of western bumble bee populations
In short: Researchers analyzing 14,457 surveys across the western United States found that the western bumble bee has faced a massive decline. The study observed that increasing temperatures, drought, and the use of neonicotinoid pesticides are strongly linked to the species becoming increasingly rare across its former range.
By applying Bayesian occupancy models to decades of survey data, the researchers quantified how environmental changes affect bee presence. While the study provides a large-scale assessment of habitat loss and climate impacts, the findings are based on specific regional data and projected future scenarios.
The study highlights how widespread stressors might threaten other pollinators globally.
Why it matters: The rapid loss of a once-common pollinator may serve as a warning for other species facing similar global stressors.
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