Native bees are locally occurring pollinators with diverse nesting behaviours, body structures, seasonal patterns, and relationships with plants and natural habitats.
Native bees are bee species that naturally occur in a particular geographic region rather than being introduced primarily for managed honey production. They include many different types of bees with distinct life histories.
Some species are solitary and live independently, while others are social and establish colonies. Native bees can differ greatly in size, colour, nesting behaviour, season of activity, and plant preferences.
Native bees contribute substantially to pollination in natural ecosystems, gardens, and agricultural landscapes. Their diversity allows different species to interact with a wide range of flowering plants.
Differences in body structures and foraging behaviours mean that some native bees can pollinate flowers that may be less effectively visited by honey bees.
Habitat loss is one of the major challenges facing native bees. Other pressures include pesticide exposure, reduced flowering plants, destruction of nesting sites, invasive vegetation, parasites, and extreme weather.
Many native bees nest in soil, hollow stems, dead wood, leaf litter, or small cavities. Excessive garden cleaning can therefore remove important nesting resources.
Grow a diverse range of locally suitable flowering plants and avoid unnecessary insecticide use. Providing flowers across different seasons can help maintain food resources for a wider range of species.
Where practical and safe, leave some undisturbed soil, hollow stems, fallen leaves, and dead wood. These natural materials can provide nesting and shelter opportunities.
Many native bee species are solitary and do not live in large colonies or produce significant honey stores. Their nesting needs may instead include bare soil, hollow plant stems, dead wood, leaf litter, or small natural cavities.
Create a diverse, pesticide-conscious habitat with locally suitable flowering plants and natural nesting materials. Avoid excessive garden cleaning and preserve small areas of undisturbed soil, vegetation, leaves, and dead wood where appropriate. Supporting habitat throughout the year can provide food and nesting opportunities for many different native bee species.
