Buff-tailed bumblebee crowned UK's favourite insect
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The poll was launched by the RSB to raise the profile of the insect population which is threatened as a result of loss of habitat, climate change and pollution.
The buff-tailed bumblebee is the UK's favourite insect, according to a nationwide poll organised by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
The winner secured victory with over 40 per cent of the 7,500 votes, beating the seven spot ladybird and the emperor dragonfly in second and third place respectively.
The largest of the bee species, the buff-tailed bumblebee is the first that you are likely to see in your garden in the summer. Its name refers to the queen bees golden-coloured tail.
Speaking to the Guardian, RSB member Dr Rebecca Nesbit put the bees popularity down to its hard work, visibility and gentle sound:
"Wasps interrupt your picnic, but there is something quite appealing about sitting in your hard and seeing a bumblebee hard at work. It's very noticeable in gardens and people are more aware of the valuable role bees play for us and the challenges they face at the moment."
The poll was launched by the RSB to raise the profile of the insect population which is threatened as a result of loss of habitat, climate change and pollution.
"When lots of people think of conservation they think of pandas and the large species that need our help, but there are lots of people who do understand how important insects are for our lives," Rebecca added.
"Many crops and wild flowers alike depend on bumblebees for pollination, They contribute to our economy, our countryside and the food we eat."
The RBS hope that people will get behind the bees by planting "bee-friendly" plants, avoiding mowing flowers until late summer and calling on MPs to create a national programme to monitor numbers.
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
