save the bees: California’s Bumble Bees Are Endangered — and Legally Fish!

 California Bumble Bees

California is home to four species of bumble bees:

1. Franklin’s bumblebee

2. Crotch’s bumblebee

3. Western bumblebee

4. Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee

Franklin’s bumblebee is potentially extinct, with no confirmed sightings since 2006.

How They Got on the List

The only way these bees could be added to the endangered species list was through research and petitioning by the Xerces Society, Defenders of Wildlife, and the Center for Food Safety. In 2022, these petitions succeeded, and the bees were officially listed as endangered — legally classified as “fish” under California law. Yes, fish. 🐟 This unusual classification is because the California Endangered Species Act groups invertebrates under the category of “fish,” allowing protection for insects like bumble bees.

Why They Need Saving

Bumble bees are essential pollinators. They help wild plants thrive, which supports entire ecosystems. They also pollinate crops like tomatoes, strawberries, and peppers. Without them, many plants could become endangered, which would ripple out to animals that rely on those plants — and even affect human food resources.

Why They Are Endangered

These bees face threats from:

• Urban expansion (habitat loss)

• Industrial activities

• Pesticide use

What We Can Do

• Reduce or stop using pesticides

• Protect and restore their habitats

• Support pollinator-friendly farming and gardening