A new study from the Center for Biological Diversity has revealed that out of more than 4,000 known species of native North American and Hawaiian bees, over half the species with available data are declining, and about 1 in 4 are at growing risk of extinction. The Center’s Pollinators in Peril study found that more than 700 species are in trouble from a range of serious threats, including severe habitat loss and escalating pesticide use.
Kelsey Kopec, the Center researcher who authored the study, says:
“Hundreds of the native bees we depend on for ecosystem stability and pollination services are spiraling toward extinction. If we don’t act to save them, our world will be a less colorful and more lonesome place.”
There’s more here from Reuters or the Center’s own press release.