Scientists are calling for stricter controls over UK bumblebee imports after the discovery of parasites in 77% of the colonies they tested. These include five microbial parasites that infect honeybees.
This discovery shows that current protocols regarding bumblebee imports are not effective, and native honeybee populations are in danger of infection from the deadly parasites found in imported colonies. Honeybees play an essential role in pollinating crops, and any danger to their populations would compromise the nation's food supply.
Regulatory authorities need to change their practices to prevent the importation of infected bees into the UK. Please sign the petition to convince authorities to develop stronger screening procedures for bumblebee imports!
We, the undersigned, are concerned about the importation of diseased bumblebees into the UK.
In a study recently published in The Journal of Applied Ecology, scientists found parasites in 77% of the imported bumblebee colonies they tested. These include five microbial parasites that infect honeybees.
This discovery shows that current protocols regarding bumblebee imports are not effective, and native honeybee populations are in danger of infection from the deadly parasites found in imported colonies. Honeybees play an essential role in pollinating crops, and any danger to their populations would compromise the UK food supply.
We respectfully urge regulatory authorities to develop and follow stricter procedures for screening bee imports into the UK. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider our petition.
