Misunderstandings about what a bee is and what a bee’s needs are can lead to misguided efforts to save them.
Much of the movement has focused on honey bees or bumble bees but has ignored the other 95% of bee species, many of which are important pollinators in our wild lands and in agricultural settings. In order to truly save the bees, we first need to understand them.
Joseph Wilson is a professor of biology. His research focuses primarily on the evolution and ecology of bees and wasps and recently authored a book, “The Bees in Your Backyard: A Guide to North America’s Bees.” He has been invited to share his knowledge on NPR, Canada Public Radio, and at speaking events across the country.