AI Insight
Dutch honeybee colonies experienced 24% mortality during the winter of 2025-2026, marking the fourth consecutive year with losses exceeding 20%. This continues an upward trend in winter mortality rates observed in recent years. Regional variations were substantial, ranging from 16.9% losses in Overijssel to 41.5% in Groningen, based on an annual survey of Dutch beekeepers.
Why it matters
Sustained high winter mortality rates in honeybee colonies pose significant risks to pollination services essential for agriculture and ecosystem health. The consistent trend above 20% losses and notable regional differences indicate potential environmental or management factors requiring intervention to protect bee populations and food security.
Understand the Science
During the winter of 2025–2026, 24% of Dutch honeybee colonies were lost. The upward trend observed in recent years therefore continues. This is the fourth consecutive year in which winter mortality has exceeded 20%. The figures are based on the annual survey of Dutch beekeepers. The results show substantial regional differences. Groningen recorded the highest winter losses, at 41.5%, while Overijssel had the lowest figure, at 16.9%.
Source: Almost a quarter of Dutch bee colonies did not survive last winter