Justin Rowlatt

Increasingly frequent and intense UK heatwaves are causing significant declines in bumblebee populations, with species struggling to fly and forage as temperatures exceed their thermal limits. Data from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust show notable drops in populations following the extreme heat of 2022, with impacts continuing into 2023. Reduced food availability during droughts further weakens colonies and limits queen production. Experts warn that rising global temperatures will worsen the problem and urge the creation of flower-rich habitats, ponds and shaded areas to help bees find moisture-rich nectar and escape excessive heat.

Heatwaves linked to climate change are causing significant declines in UK bumblebee populations, with monitoring data showing major drops after the record temperatures of 2022. Bees struggle to fly once their body temperature rises above safe limits, and extreme heat and drought also reduce nectar availability. Scientists warn that weakened colonies produce fewer queens, threatening future populations. Conservationists urge the creation of more flower-rich habitats, along with small interventions such as planting native flowers, adding shade and water sources, to help bees cope with increasingly extreme summers.