Warmer Fall Temperatures Put Honey Bees at Risk of Colony Collapse

Honey bees are facing an increased risk of colony collapse due to rising fall temperatures, according to researchers at Washington State University. Traditionally, cooler fall weather causes honey bees to remain in their hives, entering a state similar to hibernation that helps them conserve energy and live longer. However, the warmer fall temperatures now being observed are disrupting this natural cycle.

The unseasonably warm weather encourages bees to continue flying outside the hive longer than usual, which leads to increased energy expenditure and a higher risk of death. This results. . .