Dutch honeybee winter losses reach 24% in 2025‑2026

In the winter of 2025‑2026, Dutch honeybee colonies suffered a 24 % loss, marking the fourth consecutive year that winter mortality has exceeded 20 %. The data, drawn from the annual survey of beekeepers across the Netherlands, confirm that the upward trend in colony losses seen in recent years has continued.

Regional analysis shows marked variation. The province of Groningen recorded the highest winter loss at 41.5 %, while Overijssel experienced the lowest figure, with only 16.9 % of colonies lost. These disparities highlight the differing environmental and management conditions affecting bee populations across the country.

The sustained high mortality rate underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and support for beekeepers, as the health of honeybee colonies remains critical for pollination services and agricultural productivity in the Netherlands.