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Climate Change Threatens Honey Bee Colonies with Increased Risk of Collapse

A new study suggests indoor cold storage of hives could mitigate the effects of longer, warmer autumns.

  • Climate change is leading to longer, warmer autumns, increasing the risk of colony collapse for honey bee populations in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Researchers from Washington State University have found that indoor cold storage of hives during autumn could mitigate the risks associated with climate change.
  • The study utilized climate and bee population models to simulate conditions up to the end of the century, finding significant risks of spring colony collapse under current climate change trajectories.
  • Worker bees tend to forage for food whenever temperatures rise above about 50° Fahrenheit, but increased autumn flying weather is wearing them out prematurely.
  • Adopting cold storage practices could potentially boost spring hive populations significantly, offering hope for the beekeeping industry and the crops dependent on honey bee pollination.
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