Bumble bees are charismatic pollinators that play critical roles in the stability of plant-pollinator communities. Historically, Michigan contained approximately 20 unique species of bumble bees, but contemporary surveys place that number closer to 15, prompting conservation initiatives to protect bumble bee species in decline. Both conservation scientists and the public can play major roles in supporting bumble bees and their associated habitats. This presentation will provide a brief overview of Michigan bumble bees, including species diversity, distribution and conservation status, and introduce a community science program to track bumble bees across the state.
*This presentation has been approved by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division for recertification credits in the following category(s): 1A: Field Crop Pest Control, 1B: Vegetable Pest Control, 1C: Fruit Crops Pest Management, 2: Forest Pest Management, 3B: Ornamental Pest Management, 6: Right-of-Way Pest Management, Commercial CORE, and Private CORE