We’ve all heard stories about how the bees are dying off and we will be seeing less and less of them, but people don’t seem to be concerned. Sadly, because of that lack of concern, the first bumblebee has been added to the endangered species list.

James Stranger, a bumble bee ecologist says that there are a few spots where they know bumblebees are at, but only a few. They used to live all over the Midwest and East Coast, but now 95 percent of them are spread out among just 12 states and Canada.

He hopes to see the species get the protection it needs now that it is officially listed as endangered. Bumblebees are critical to natural ecosystems and agriculture as pollinators. While most people have ignored the warnings about bees, they should be much more concerned.

Experts say that losing bumblebees could have devastating effects on animals and human life. They say that pollinator decline is a worldwide issue that raises concerns over the impact on global food production and much more.

Loss of habitat and pollution are two of the causes of reduction in bumblebee numbers. Also, the use of neonicotinoid pesticides and the increase in diseases that bees are susceptible too that threaten their existence. Experts hope that having them on the endangered species list will allow them to be protected and reestablish the bee population.

While bumblebees may be small, they have a big job and we can’t afford to lose them. Life without bees could be catastrophic. So be sure to share this with your family and friends and lets team up and keep these helpful little creatures around for as long as possible.