Bees : They Die - We die

Why Bees important?

Are bees important as they claim to be? Yes, Even more actually. More than one third of the fruits and vegetables that we eat are estimated to be pollinated by bees.

So, bees can be called as the World's most important Pollinator.

If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe, then man would only have four years of life left. No more bees, no more pollination, no more plants, no more animals, no more man."

                                                          -Albert Einstein

Why are they dying?

The global honey bee population is declining dramatically. Reduction of honey production is not actually the problem. This could result devastating impact on global food supply.

Reasons

1.     Climate change

We’ve all heard about climate change, but did you know it’s hurting certain species? Bees are one of these species in danger due to this drastic change. Many species migrate north to adjust to the temperature changes but bees are not doing so. Resulting in many of them dying.

2.     Neonicotinoids

Bees are dying from pesticides called neonicotinoids affecting their nervous systems. This results in the bees suffering from infections. Neonicotinoids have a chemical structure similar to nicotine. It has been linked to honeybee colony collapse disorder and also to a loss of birds because of a reduced number of insects.

3.     Varroa destructor mite.

The Varroa destructor mite has infested the United States from Asia. The parasite was introduced by accident and has been attacking hives across the nation.

4.     Intensive agricultural practices, such as monoculture (growing the same crop year after year)

Good news

Due to intensive awareness campaigns and bee conserving projects by Scientists, governments and many organizations this serious problem has been highlighted and positive steps have been taken by both government and industry.

“If you find a tired bee in your home, a simple solution of sugar and water will help revive an exhausted bee. Simply mix two tablespoons of white, granulated sugar with one tablespoon of water, and place on a spoon for the bee to reach.”

-         David Attenborough, from The Blue Planet and Planet Earth