It's Official: Wild Honeybees 'Endangered' in Europe For First Time, Scientists Warn

Wild Honeybees Now Endangered in Europe

Despite the growing honey industry, wild honeybees in Europe have been officially categorized as endangered for the first time.

These wild honeybees live in natural spaces, such as tree cavities, and are distinct from those kept in hives by beekeepers.

Conservation Status

The latest update to the IUCN Red List, the world's official database of species conservation statuses, confirms the endangered status of wild honeybee populations in the European Union.

The western honeybee has a long history with humans, dating back to ancient Egyptians who kept them in rudimentary hives to harvest honey.

Impact of Modern Beekeeping

Modern beekeeping practices, including mobile hives and commercial pollination, have had a significant impact on the species.

Author's summary: Wild honeybees are endangered in Europe due to human activities.

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ScienceAlert ScienceAlert — 2025-10-13

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