Why we focus on wild bees

The decline of bees in the UK has been a topic of concern and debate in recent years. However, the reality is more nuanced than often portrayed in media headlines. Here's an evidence-based overview of the bee situation in Britain:Honey bee populations are stable or increasing


Contrary to popular belief, honey bee numbers in the UK have not declined significantly. In fact, official government data shows that honey bee hive numbers have increased by over 40% since 2015. As of 2021, there were an estimated 272,631 honey bee hives in Britain, which is similar to hive numbers in the mid-1950s.This trend reflects the global situation, where honey bee populations have seen substantial increases since the 1960s. The stability of managed honey bee populations is largely due to beekeepers' ability to replace lost colonies. Wild bee species face greater challenges

Wild Bees

While honey bees are faring relatively well, the situation for wild bee species is more concerning. Out of approximately 2000 bee species in Europe, nearly 1 in 10 are facing the threat of extinction. Wild bees, which include bumblebees and solitary bees, are crucial pollinators but receive less direct human management than honey bees.Factors contributing to wild bee declines:

  1. Habitat loss: The UK has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows since World War II, significantly reducing suitable habitats for wild bees.

  2. Climate change: Shifting seasons and extreme weather events are disrupting the synchronization between bee activity and plant flowering times.

  3. Pesticides: The use of certain pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, has been linked to negative impacts on bee populations.

  4. Disease and parasites: Wild bee populations can be affected by diseases and parasites, some of which may spread from managed honey bee colonies.

Conservation efforts and future outlook


While the situation for wild bees is concerning, it's important to note that not all bee species are declining uniformly. Some species are stable or even increasing. Conservation efforts are underway to support bee populations:

  • Creating and preserving pollinator-friendly habitats

  • Encouraging bee-friendly gardening practices

  • Reducing pesticide use and promoting organic farming

  • Supporting research into bee health and conservation

Moving forward, continued monitoring of both managed and wild bee populations is crucial. While honey bees are not facing imminent extinction in the UK, wild bee conservation remains a priority to maintain biodiversity and ensure robust pollination services for both wild plants and crops.By focusing conservation efforts on wild bee species and their habitats, we can work towards a more sustainable future for all pollinators in the UK.

Ben Davidson