Tell the EPA: These pesticides are killing endangered bees

Re: EPA-HQ-OPP-2024-0299

Thank you for creating a strategy to protect endangered species, including bees, from pesticides.

With so many species already on the edge of extinction, the EPA has a responsibility to protect the environment and wildlife from toxic threats. Allowing the use of pesticides that are known to harm endangered species is unacceptable.

The EPA’s own analysis found that three common neonicotinoids have adverse effects on three-quarters of all endangered plants and animals. These neonicotinoid pesticides are especially toxic for endangered bee species, including the rusty patched bumblebee, and can kill them.

We urge you to finalize a strong plan to protect endangered species from pesticides. As the EPA reviews pesticides and now considers endangered species, it should also take steps to restrict the use of bee-killing pesticides.