Two New Studies on Honey Bee and Bumble Bee Declines Released

Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) deaths are more closely being tied to the use of neonicotinoid insecticides.

Information released yesterday from two European studies indicate that even low levels of neonicotinoid insecticides can cause Honey Bee and Bumble Bee population reductions. 

Neonicotinoid pesticides act on the bee's central nervous system causing disorientation, paralysis and eventual death in the bee and its colony.

I would like to suggest to all growers (both farmers and home vegetable and fruit growers) to stay on top of this issue in hopes that we can curb the bee losses that have been experienced over the last several years.

Growers with blooming plants or crops that Honey Bees frequent should be most cautious.

More studies need to be done to firm up and come to a final conclusion.

Neonicotinoid pesticides are being produced by several manufactures, please read your labels and consider the potential consequences before use.