In 2024, the populations of bumbles in the United Kingdom reach a worrying threshold. A large portion of the 24 local species, once flourishing, is now classified among the species of concern in terms of conservation. This dramatic decline is attributed to the destruction of their habitats as well as an increase in temperatures. The meadows, which once housed a rich plant diversity essential for bumbles, have seen 98% of their area disappear, leading to a critical scarcity of food and nesting spaces.
Alarming decline of bumbles in the UK
In 2024, the populations of bumbles in the United Kingdom reached a historically low level, an alarming situation caused by factors such as climate change, the loss of natural habitats, and environmental degradation. The rapid decline of these precious pollinators has potentially disastrous repercussions on biodiversity and agriculture. Bumbles, essential for the pollination of many crops, are seeing their numbers decrease significantly, threatening the survival of certain species vital for the proper functioning of ecosystems.
Main causes of their disappearance
The main factors contributing to this decline include the massive loss of habitats due to urbanization and the intensification of agriculture. Nearly 98% of natural meadows, essential for food and nesting of bumbles, have disappeared. Moreover, climate warming has caused temperature changes exceeding the tolerance thresholds of many species, forcing some to relocate their territories. Conservation efforts need to be intensified to counter this trend.
Innovative rewilding projects
To reverse this decline, innovative projects, such as rewilding, are multiplying. In the United Kingdom, initiatives have led to a hundredfold increase in bumble populations in certain fields by restoring meadows rich in biodiversity. This demonstrates the potential effectiveness of targeted strategies to recover declining populations. Similar efforts can be explored in other countries to save these essential species for our environment. See more on The beautiful stories of bumbles.
