The crisis threatens pollination of key crops and has led to financial ruin for many beekeepers. Scientists cite climate change, habitat loss, pesticide use, varroa mites, and poor handling as potential causes.

The USDA is investigating the latest losses, but Trump-era staff cuts have slowed research, prompting Cornell University to assist.

Despite increased colony numbers from rising beekeeper interest, loss rates continue to surge, endangering agriculture and ecosystems.

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[–] kerrigan778@lemmy.world 2 points 3 days ago (1 children)

I just want to point out that you just said everywhere but and then listed around 60% of the total world land area.

[–] woelkchen@lemmy.world 1 points 3 days ago (1 children)

Thanks for the clarification. Let me also clarify that the USA are within that 40% where honey bees are not native to and brought there by Europeans.

Were the cause not pesticides that kill all insects including native species, a decline of that invasive one would have been good news.

[–] kerrigan778@lemmy.world 2 points 2 days ago

I mean, it would still be pretty bad news as most of them are domesticated farm animals that are vital to our agriculture.