The Buzz About Bees: Why Native North American Bees Need Our Attention

When it comes to bees, the European honey bee (Apis mellifera) often hogs the spotlight, its plight widely publicized and lamented. A recent New York Times article suggested that perhaps we should not be overly concerned about the European honey bee populations, and there is some merit to that perspective. However, at the Waterford Bee Company, we believe this narrative needs a significant addendum: the urgent conservation of native North American bee populations.

Native N. American bees and other pollinators need our continued focus and attention to preserve their habitats and support their populations

While European honey bees are cultivated primarily for agriculture and honey production, native North American bees, often overlooked, are unsung heroes of our ecosystems. These indigenous pollinators are not just part of the natural heritage of the continent; they are also vital to the pollination of both wild plants and many crops.

The Misunderstood Resilience of European Honey Bees

The European honey bee is an introduced species, and it's had a profound impact on North American agriculture. In recent years, there's been a lot of concern over Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) and other factors affecting these bees. But here's the catch: the European honey bee is highly managed by beekeepers, and their populations can be replenished, to an extent, by human intervention.

What's more, the European honey bee is a global species, found and bred across the world. It is also remarkably adaptable and can live in a wide range of environments. These factors contribute to a form of resilience that many wild bee species simply do not have.

The Plight of Native Bees

In contrast, the conservation status of native North American bees has not received nearly enough attention. There are over 4,000 native bee species in the United States alone, and many of these are facing severe threats from habitat loss, pesticide exposure, climate change, and competition with honey bees.

These native bees are crucial pollinators within their ecosystems. For example, the squash bee (Peponapis pruinosa) is a specialist pollinator for squashes and gourds, and the blueberry bee (Habropoda laboriosa) plays a key role in pollinating blueberries. The disappearance of these specialist pollinators could lead to declines in the plants they pollinate, which could have cascading effects on ecosystems and agriculture.

Why Native Bees Matter

Native North American bees are important for several reasons:

1. Biodiversity: Native bees are an integral part of North American biodiversity. They have co-evolved with the local flora and are adapted to local conditions and ecosystems.

2. Pollination Services: Many native bee species are more efficient pollinators than honey bees for certain crops and wild plants. This is partly because they have evolved alongside these plants and often have specialized traits that make them more effective at transferring pollen for specific species.

3. Ecosystem Health: Native bees are a key part of the food web. They serve as pollinators and also as food for other wildlife, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystems in which they live.

What Can We Do?

Protecting native North American bees requires concerted effort and changes in both agriculture and urban landscaping:

• Supporting Habitat Conservation: Protecting and restoring native habitats can provide bees with the flowers and nesting sites they need.

• Reducing Pesticide Use: Pesticides can be lethal to native bees. Reducing their use, especially those known to harm bees, is crucial.

• Planting Native Flowers: Gardening with native plants can provide food and habitat for native bee species.

• Supporting Local Conservation Efforts: Engage with and support organizations that work towards the conservation of native bee populations.

While the European honey bee is an important agricultural ally, it's time to shift some of our focus to the many native bees that are in dire need of our help. At the Waterford Bee Company, we advocate for a balanced approach to bee conservation that includes both managed and wild populations. By understanding the unique roles of native bees and taking action to protect them, we ensure the health of our ecosystems and our food systems for generations to come.

Remember, the next time you enjoy a crisp apple, a juicy blueberry, or the sight of a wildflower meadow, there's a good chance a native North American bee played a part in it. Let's work together to return the favor and safeguard these vital pollinators.