World Bee Day highlights threats to vital species and calls for “small acts of kindness”
LESS than half of people recognise bees as sentient animals, despite their vital role in pollinating crops and supporting global food production, according to new figures highlighted ahead of World Bee Day.
The RSPCA is urging people to take simple steps to help reverse declining bee numbers, as populations across the UK have fallen by around a third over the past 30 years.
Bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops such as apples, broccoli and cabbages, but conservationists warn that habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change are placing significant pressure on species survival.
According to the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index, just 46 per cent of people recognise bees as sentient beings capable of experiencing physical and emotional states. However, scientific research has shown bees are capable of complex behaviours including social learning, problem-solving and even play.
Threatened species
There are around 270 species of bee in the UK, with 35 currently under threat of extinction and 13 already lost.
In total, bees are responsible for pollinating around 75 per cent of leading global crops and contribute to around one-third of the world’s food production.
Call for simple action
Rebecca Machin, wildlife expert at the RSPCA, said bees were “incredible insects” that play a far greater role in ecosystems than many people realise.
“Bees can perform incredibly complex tasks, have fascinating social lives, and are essential pollinators,” she said. “It’s important to make sure we take care of them, and luckily everyone can do their bit to help.”
She added that small actions, such as planting native flowers or providing water sources, can make a meaningful difference.
“Being kind to animals isn’t just about cats and dogs — it’s about taking care of every kind of creature,” she said. “Every kind act for animals is a vote for a better world.”
Simple steps for gardeners
As part of its “Summer of Kindness” campaign, the RSPCA is encouraging people to support bees by creating small drinking stations in gardens.
The organisation says a shallow container filled with clean pebbles or stones and topped with rainwater can provide a safe place for bees to land and drink.
People are also being encouraged to leave areas of garden to grow wild, plant bee-friendly flowers, and take part in initiatives such as “No Mow May”.
The RSPCA is asking members of the public to share images of bee-friendly spaces on social media to encourage wider participation.
The charity says small, everyday actions can combine to make a significant impact on wildlife welfare and biodiversity.
