Bumblebees, essential pollinators for ecosystems and agriculture, are increasingly demonstrating unusual nesting behaviors during winter, driven by climate change. Conservationists have raised concerns after observing bumblebees building nests in the midst of unseasonably mild winters in the UK. This shift poses significant risks to the survival of these vital insects.
The conservation charity Buglife recently reported sightings of active worker bumblebees in Aberdeen over the Christmas period. Such behavior is highly irregular, as bumblebees typically hibernate through winter, emerging only in spring when flowers are abundant. These winter activities have also been noted in other parts of the UK, including the Highlands, during similar mild spells.
Buglife’s findings indicate that at least two of the UK’s 25 bumblebee species may have initiated nests prematurely. While mild temperatures temporarily support activity, the harsh reality of winter—scarcity of flowers and sudden cold snaps—poses severe challenges. Without enough nectar and pollen to sustain the nests, the chances of their collapse increase dramatically. This is particularly concerning as nest failure prevents the production of new queens, further exacerbating the already documented decline in bumblebee populations.
Climate change has been identified as a key driver behind this behavior. Warmer winters disrupt the natural hibernation cycle of bumblebees, prompting queens to emerge early. These premature awakenings lead to active nests at a time when environmental conditions remain unfavorable.
Paul Hetherington from Buglife highlighted the gravity of the situation, explaining, “When queens awaken and begin building nests in winter, they face a significant risk of collapse due to limited floral resources and unpredictable weather. If no new queens are produced, the population decline will worsen in the long term.”
This phenomenon underscores the urgent need for action to combat climate change and protect pollinators. Efforts to plant winter-flowering plants, reduce pesticide use, and safeguard natural habitats can provide critical support for bumblebee survival. Public awareness campaigns and conservation programs are vital to ensure these insects can continue their role as key pollinators.
As the climate crisis intensifies, bumblebees’ early nesting serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of addressing environmental challenges with urgency.
