Nature NB is conducting field surveys in Fredericton this summer to study the native bumblebee population. Equipped with insect nets and vials, the conservation group aims to map bumblebee locations and habitats in New Brunswick and the Maritimes. Francie Morgan, the program coordinator, highlighted the importance of creating a foundation for conservation efforts to protect bumblebee habitats.
The initiative, developed by the Mi’kmaq-led Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources, involves surveying three sites in Fredericton’s north side. Using distinct color patterns and shapes on the bees’ bodies, the team identified six bumblebee species during the initial survey in June. Data collected is shared with various organizations to support research and conservation efforts globally.
Morgan emphasized the interconnectedness of species and habitats, stating that protecting bumblebee habitats also benefits other pollinators like wasps and monarchs. Nature NB’s program coincides with the New Brunswick government’s draft recovery strategy for the Bohemian cuckoo bumblebee and the yellow-banded bumblebee, two threatened local species.
Shaylyn Wallace, a species at-risk manager, emphasized the need for more research and collaboration to fill knowledge gaps about bumblebee populations. Native bumblebees play a crucial role in maintaining plant diversity and ecosystem resilience. Morgan encouraged residents to support wild pollinators by allowing yard spaces to grow wild, creating essential foraging areas for bumblebees.