Wild Honeybee decline in Europe [10.08.26]
A new study from our network shines a light on Europe’s often-overlooked wild western honeybee populations.
© University of Hohenheim / KomBioTa
While honeybees are widely associated with managed hives, free-living colonies still make up an estimated one-sixth of the European population. By analyzing colony survival data from seven countries and accounting for swarms originating from apiaries, researchers assessed how these wild populations are faring over time.
The findings are concerning: wild honeybee populations persist in five of the seven countries studied, but in most regions they are declining without continued input from managed colonies. Simulations suggest a median decline of 56% over a decade—meeting the threshold for an “Endangered in the wild” classification at the European level. The study underscores the need to recognize, monitor, and conserve wild honeybees as distinct wildlife populations.
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