Community assistance sought for locating wild honeybee populations this summer

This summer, residents in South West England are urged to report sightings of wild honeybee nests as part of a crucial conservation initiative. Wild honeybees, which are vital to the honeybee population, are endangered in Europe. However, a recent study indicates that the population of free-living honeybees in southern England is robust and potentially self-sustaining. To investigate this further, a research team from the University of Plymouth is asking the public to report wild honeybee nests in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset to learn about their genetics and adaptability, which may aid in conserving their European relatives.