Europe’s Wild Bees Are Declining

A century of scientific records reveals how Europe’s wild pollinators are losing ground, reshaping ecosystems across the continent.

Europe’s wild bees are facing a widespread decline. A study published on October 19, 2026, in the scientific journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) reveals that many species have experienced a reduction in their geographical distribution over the past century. Drawing on millions of records collected between 1921 and 2020, the research offers an extensive picture of how Europe’s pollinator communities are changing.

While most species have not disappeared, many are becoming less widespread. These changes raise important questions about the future of biodiversity and the ecosystems that depend on pollination.

A Century of Decline

Led by researchers from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), the international study examined more than four million records of wild bees and hoverflies, another important group of pollinating insects. The dataset covered approximately 88% of Europe’s known species across both groups.

The findings show that most wild bee species included in the trend analysis have declined in geographical occupancy, meaning they are now recorded across fewer areas. Approximately half of the hoverfly species analysed also showed declining trends.

These changes vary across Europe. The Atlantic and Continental regions have experienced reductions in pollinator species richness, while the Alpine region has recorded more recent increases among bees. Researchers suggest that changing climatic conditions may help explain some regional differences.

Importantly, a decline in geographical distribution does not necessarily mean that a species is approaching extinction. Many wild bees remain present, although their habitats and ranges are changing.

Why Wild Bees Matter

Europe is home to a remarkable diversity of wild bees, including bumblebees, mason bees and numerous solitary species. Unlike managed honeybees, these insects often depend on specific nesting sites, flowering plants and local environmental conditions.

Wild bees play an essential role in plant reproduction, transferring pollen between flowers and supporting the production of seeds and fruits. Different species pollinate different plants, making their diversity particularly important for healthy ecosystems.

The study also suggests that cold-adapted bees are experiencing greater declines than species associated with warmer environments. As sensitive species become less widespread, the composition of pollinator communities may change, potentially affecting ecological relationships.

A Changing European Landscape

Habitat loss, intensive agriculture, pesticide exposure and climate change are recognised pressures on wild pollinators. These factors can reduce available food, destroy nesting habitats and fragment landscapes.

Although the study does not identify a single cause for every decline, it documents long-term changes across much of Europe. Researchers also acknowledge that historical records are unevenly distributed, with some regions better documented than others.

Protecting habitats, restoring diverse landscapes and improving scientific monitoring remain important approaches to supporting wild bee populations.

Most species examined still have relatively recent records, meaning opportunities for conservation remain. Europe’s wild bees have not disappeared, but the landscapes supporting them are gradually changing.

Did You Know?
Most wild bees live alone, and some depend on just a handful of plant species to survive. Unlike honeybees, many solitary bees cannot simply switch to another food source when their preferred flowers disappear. For these highly specialised pollinators, losing a particular plant can mean losing an essential part of their habitat.

FAQ

Credits photos:
Hero ©️Erik Karits
*©️Kollinger

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay informed

This article may be of interest to you: Wild Orchids: Botanical Journey Across the Continents