‘Bee’ informed: Public interest exceeds understanding in bee conservation

Many people have heard bee populations are declining due to such threats as colony collapse disorder, pesticides and habitat loss. And many understand bees are critical to plant pollination. Yet, according to a study, few are aware of the wide diversity of bees and other pollinators beyond such species as honeybees. Because conservation efforts require substantial public support, outreach is needed to help people understand bee declines and how to protect pollinators.