U.S. Honeybee Deaths Reach Record High: Survey

Honeybee deaths in the United States have surged to record highs, with commercial beekeepers reporting having lost an average of 62 percent of their colonies over the winter, according to an ongoing survey by nonprofit Project Apis m.

Data for the survey was collected from 702 respondents who are responsible for roughly 1.84 million colonies — about 68 percent of the country’s bees.

“The start of the 2025 almond pollination season was met with unprecedented colony losses which have shaken the beekeeping industry. In response, Project Apis m. conducted a widespread survey to assess the breadth and severity of colony die offs within the United States,” a press release from Project Apis m. said. “These alarming numbers could significantly impact crop pollination of essential foods and harm the profitability of the nation’s agriculture industry.”

Beekeepers are used to some colony losses each year, but the severity of this season’s casualties could mean disaster for many businesses.