A species of bumble is returning to some areas after over ten years of absence. Numbers of Bombus occidentalis, more commonly known as the western bumblebee, fell dramatically in the nineties, totally disappearing in parts of Washington State. The western bumblebee is one of several species to see a massive population decline, while even the more hardy honey bee — partially protected by our desire for the honey they produce — is in trouble.
The resurgence of the species was first hinted at least year, when an insect enthusiast discovered one of the bumble bees in west Washington state — the first in over a decade. This year, freelance writer-photographer Will Peterman captured photos of the bee in a park, and returned with a group of entomologists from the University of Washington to search for more of the insects.
via The Verge
Image: US DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
