Dutch citizens urged to help save bees during National Bee Count 2026
From April 16 to 20, join thousands of Dutch residents in the National Bee Count to help protect endangered wild bees. Just 30 minutes of counting in your garden or balcony can contribute to vital data on pollinators that sustain 80% of our food crops.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | National Bee Count 2026 |
| Dates | April 16–20, 2026 |
| Participants (2025) | Over 10,000 people |
| Bees counted (2025) | 136,000 |
| Wild bee species | 358 (half endangered) |
| Food crops dependent | 80% on pollinators like bees |
| Organizers | Naturalis, Natuur & Milieu, IVN Natuureducatie, LandschappenNL |
| How to join | Download guide at www.nationalebijentelling.nl/hulp-nodig |
The National Bee Count is organized by a coalition of Dutch environmental and educational organizations, including Naturalis and Natuur & Milieu. Their role is to monitor biodiversity, raise public awareness, and advocate for policies that protect pollinators critical to ecosystems and agriculture.
Read the full translated article below
Join the National Bee Count
From April 16 to 20, everyone in the Netherlands can once again participate in the National Bee Count: in your own garden, on your balcony, or another green space. Take action for the bees and count for half an hour this weekend.
Why participate?
Of the 358 wild bee species in the Netherlands, half are endangered. Wild bees are crucial for our food supply: 80% of our edible crops depend on bees and other insects for pollination.
How does it work?
Participating is simple, even without prior knowledge of bees. Choose a sunny or at least dry moment and count bees for half an hour. Use the counting form and the handy bee guide, which can be downloaded via www.nationalebijentelling.nl/hulp-nodig. This guide helps you identify different species of bees, bumblebees, and hoverflies. Last year, over 10,000 people participated and counted 136,000 bees. Will you join this year?
Your garden as a bee paradise
Wild bees need food and nesting spots. Turn your garden or balcony into a bee paradise by letting flowers and plants bloom from early spring to autumn. Remove some tiles, plant flowers, and provide bare ground or a bee hotel. Even in a small garden or on your balcony, you can make bees happy.
The National Bee Count
The National Bee Count is an initiative by Naturalis, Natuur & Milieu, IVN Natuureducatie, and LandschappenNL. By participating, you help protect bees and contribute to a healthy nature in our municipalities. More info: www.nationalebijentelling.nl.