

A bee conservationist made an unexpected discovery in the ancient woodlands surrounding Blenheim Palace in England.
Filipe Salbany found hundreds of thousands of rare honeybees that appear to be the last wild descendants of Britain’s native honeybee population, The Guardian reports. These bees are smaller, furrier, and darker than their counterparts that live in managed beehives, and they “live in nests in very small cavities, as bees have for millions of years,” Salbany said.
In the early 1990s, the varroa mite arrived in Britain and was thought to have wiped out the wild honeybee population, but Salbany said he believes the bees he came across have evolved to survive such threats. DNA samples have been extracted from the bees for testing, and Salbany said it’s clear their wings are smaller and their veins are “very distinct,” distinguishing them from imported bees.
The woodlands are not open to the public and there is no gardening or planting activity, so there is “very little human interaction,” Salbany told The Guardian. The bees are so relaxed that he’s able to touch them safely, and they make “incredibly pure” honey. Salbany said he thinks it’s likely there are other spots with hidden wild bee populations, and that’s why “we need to protect our ancient woodlands. Because that’s where we are likely to find these bees.”
more recommended stories
Yucatan’s cenotes and mangroves are in danger due to pollution and deforestation
World Environment Day is celebrated under.
Activists march against animal cruelty in Merida
To commemorate International Animal Rights Day,.
Once again, AMLO visits the Yucatan and meets with Mauricio Vila
In Yucatan, the President of Mexico,.
Learn about the famous mansion “El Pinar” in Merida Yucatán
The large house “El Pinar” in.
Sports Fishing in the Riviera Maya: Majestic Mahi Mahi
The Riviera Maya, with its turquoise.
Without progress, the tragic Debanhi Escobar’s case
The case of the death of.
The enigmatic creation of seashells
Seashells have long captivated our imagination.
Encountering enchanting dolphins off the Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya, located along the.
Buzzing guardians: The importance of bees in Yucatan’s ecosystem
In the enchanting landscapes of the.
Majestic lizards in a tropical paradise
Nestled in the vibrant and biodiverse.
Leave a Comment