Wildlife Welfare

Bee Colony Health and Pesticide Welfare

Honey bees and wild pollinators face significant welfare threats from pesticide exposure, both lethal and sublethal.

Key Facts

Neonicotinoids are linked to impaired navigation, learning and reproductive success in bees
Sublethal effects of pesticides reduce colony fitness even without immediate mortality
Fungicides synergise with insecticides to increase bee toxicity
Integrated pest management reduces pesticide use while maintaining crop protection
Buffer zones around flowering plants and water sources help protect foraging bees

Welfare Considerations

Pesticide exposure causes both acute death and sublethal suffering in bees, including disorientation, tremors and impaired communication. Reducing exposure through IPM and habitat management is a key welfare and conservation priority.

What You Can Do

Plant pesticide-free flowering plants to support foraging bees in your garden
Support organic and reduced-pesticide farming through purchasing choices
Advocate for stronger pesticide regulation protecting pollinators