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The decline of bees in the UK is putting the countryside at risk. Here are some of the devastating consequences that could happen if the species continues to decline.

Between 1980 and 2013, the UK has lost 11 species of bee and hoverfly, a study by Nature Communications has found.

Scientists warn that if current trends continue, certain bee species will become extinct in Britain, this would be devastating for the country’s biodiversity.

The pandemic has seen a rise in the popularity of staycations and a new found appreciation of the British countryside, yet these beauty spots are at risk of being lost if bees continue to

decline.

The natural world is set to look very different, according to images produced by Parkdean Resorts.

If this decline continues, the impact on the environment could be severe, but our surroundings may not be the only victim.

The ability to grow popular crops such as potatoes and almonds may be under threat.

Much of the pollination of food crops and wild plants is carried out by wild bee species and other insects, particularly hoverflies.

Head of Corporate Partnerships at the RSPB, Nicky O’Malley, said: “Many of our bee species are declining globally.

"We can really help them by providing nectar-rich plants for them. Plants like crocus and hellebores provide a great source of food for those bees who emerge early in the colder months,

while plants like borage and rosemary provide bees with food throughout the summer.

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“By making our gardens, balconies and window sills into bee-friendly spots, as well as beautiful places for us, we can really help these important pollinators.”

A loss of natural habitats, such as flowers and wild meadows, has been a significant contributor to the decline of bees in the UK.

As down-heartening as this is, some steps can be taken to protect these prevalent pollinators.

Plant as many native flower species in your garden as possible.

Bees need good nutrition having a variety of native plants available for them is an easy way to provide that for them.

If you are tight on space a flower filled window ledge can be just as good.

In the summer water can be scarce for bees, leave a dish or bucket of water out for them to drink from, pop some corks or twigs in so they can land on them.

Plants grown with pesticides can kill bee species and could be aiding their decline in this country.

Likewise, try to avoid pesticides in your own garden where possible.

The current statistics may be bleak but there is plenty that can be done to turn the tide on the bee decline.

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