Bee populations are declining at an alarming rate across the country, with commercial operators reporting a 62% loss from June 2024 to February 2025. This trend could have a significant impact on U.S. agriculture, as honey bees are responsible for pollinating 75% of the world’s natural supplies and contribute to $17 billion in agricultural production each year. Researchers are still trying to determine the cause of the massive bee die-offs, citing factors such as pathogens, varroa mites, and a lack of nutrition.
Beekeepers are also facing an increase in hive thefts, with incidents rising by 87% in California since 2013. These thefts, which often occur at night, are difficult to track and recover. Beekeeper Trevor Tauzer described the thefts as violating, as beekeepers invest significant time, money, and effort into keeping their bees healthy.
In response to the declining bee populations, experts are calling for government support for beekeepers and encouraging regular Americans to plant bee-friendly flora to support pollinators. Providing access to clean bee forage can help bees cope with other negative factors they face. Beekeepers and law enforcement are working together to combat hive thefts, with tactics such as hiding tracking devices in hives and branding hives for identification. Overall, the declining bee populations are a concerning issue that could impact food prices and agricultural production in the future.
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