The American bumblebee is at risk of extinction in Canada, scientists say

CNN — The American bumblebee is in trouble in America’s neighbor to the north. A group of scientists from York University and University of Vermont looked at three different measurements and found that Bombus pensylvanicus, commonly known as the American bumblebee, is declining in Canada. “Native bees indispensable to the health of the natural world are declining globally due to accelerating threats from agricultural expansion, habitat loss and climate change.” These particular American bumblebees are considered a keystone species and are critical for the functioning of ecosystems where they live. “Losing one species could cause a decrease in plant reproduction and plant yield.” Scientists are asking the government to take action The researchers decided to conduct the study after other research found the American bumblebee is on the decline in parts of the United States. Scientists don’t yet know exactly what is causing the bees to decline, MacPhail said, though she cited several likely threats, including habitat loss, diseases, climate change and competition with non-native species.