For the first time in the United States, the rusty patched bumble bee is now on the brink of extinction, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The population once thrived in 28 states, but over the last two years, this specific bee population has plummeted.
The threats that have caused this species of bumblebees to become endangered include loss of habitat, diseases and parasites, pesticides, and climate change. This is especially a big deal for people because bees pollinate our food. The pollination service by these bees would equal 3 billion dollars in economic value each year.
Ways to help
Go easy on the chemicals
Discarding the usage of chemicals will not only save the lives of bumblebees, but also help to maintain healthy soil to keep plants’ immune system strong for attracting the bees.
Make a border
If you border your plants with fruits and vegetables, pollination of your crops will improve and also support the bees when the crops stop blooming. It will also attract other pollinators that control crop pests.
Build or buy a bee house
Available online and at garden stores, these homes provide habitat to the bee species that is slowly dying from lack of environment to dwell.
Come bee a part of saving the patched bumblebees!
Source:
https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/03/bumblebees-endangered-extinction-united-states/
https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2015/05/150524-bees-pollinators-animals-science-gardens-plants/
