Bumblebees exposed to up to seven times as much toxic metal as honeybees

Bumblebees exposed to up to seven times as much toxic metal as honeybees Craig Brierley Tue, 07/07/2026 - 10:00 Metal pollution is a widespread issue, typically concentrated near industrial centres, mining areas and towns and cities. It can also be carried to rural areas in the air or through the use of sewage sludge, agrochemicals and fertilisers, for example. When bees are foraging for food, they can inadvertently collect metals from their environment through exposure to contaminated soil, dust and pollen.