Let's talk about bees

The Problem at a Glance

  • There are about 20,000 species of bee on the planet.
  • 90% of bees are Solitary Bees.
  • There are only 8 species of honey bee on the planet.
  • Honey bees are not endangered.

Bumblebees and Solitary Bees need our help.

  • Around 40% of bee species across the planet are in trouble.
  • 25% of bee species are no longer showing up on records.

Why Bees Matter

When most people think of bees, they picture honeybees — but out of 20,000 bee species, there's only 8 types of honey bee. It’s the native wild bees — like bumblebees, mason bees, and other solitary bees — that are the real backbone of healthy ecosystems.

Native wild bees are faster, more efficient pollinators than honeybees. They play a critical role in pollinating wildflowers, fruits, and vegetables — keeping our food systems diverse and our landscapes alive. Unlike honeybees, many of them don’t live in hives or produce honey. They live alone, in underground burrows, hollow stems, and old wood — quietly doing work that sustains entire ecosystems.

But they’re in trouble.

Pesticides, habitat loss, industrial farming, and climate change are pushing wild bee populations to collapse. Over 40% of insect pollinators are at risk of extinction — and when they disappear, so does the balance of nature.

What You Can Do

  • Don't Get A Honey Bee Hive

    Don't get a hive of honey bees in an attempt to save native wild bees.

  • Grow Native Wild Flowers

    Native Wild Flowers are brilliant for bees... and they look amazing!

  • Don't Use Pesticides

    Pesticides kill bees (and they are harmful to you).

  • Consider What You Eat - Your Diet

    The main negative impact on bee numbers is loss of habitat and poisoning of habitat for humans to grow food. Eat less meat and dairy. Seek out organic and don't use chemicals in your garden.

  • Join Our Movement

    Buy a t-shirt. Spread the word. Join the community taking action.

We're still developing this site so check back soon to learn more about bees and what we can all do to save them.

You can also learn more on World Bee Sanctuary's website here.