There has been concern over the past few years about colony collapse disorder as bee populations have declined dramatically. Research reported in the journal Science indicates the collapse in bee populations has been catalysed by a virus, spread by the varroa mite, to which bees have not adapted. We have noticed thecollapse of the bee colony in our roof – last summer we would notice bees on the ground as we walk to the door. They were just falling out of the air and dying. This year there are some left buzzing in and out of the slates. I hope they regenerate. Natural regeneration will occur as the bees that have resistance survive and breed. This might take a couple of generations (or a couple of years) if things go well.
Bees should be protected and nurtured because we need them for our own food. They are responsible for pollinating a significant amount of fruit and vegetables that we consume. We can not replace their service mechanically. Food yields will be affected while populations are reduced. Let’s love bees.
Make a bee hotel with the help of Friends of the Earth new step-by-step guide.
BBC: Honeybee virus: Varroa mite spreads lethal disease
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