Native pollinators are a very important and diverse group of animals with fascinating ecologies; unfortunately, few people are aware of them and their importance because of the media’s focus on honeybees. Despite the many articles written about colony collapse, honeybees are not going extinct. Their issues are not ones of conservation, but instead are ones […] Continue reading "Native Pollinator Garden Basics for the Chicago Region"
Fayette Aurelia Nichols gave an information-packed presentation to us on May 20 based on her extensive research and experience with this bumblebee. Not only did we learn some basics about bumblebees in general, but Aurelia gave us some very specific information to help the Rusty-patched Bumblebee. The Rusty-patched Bumblebee was a very abundant species at […] Continue reading "Recap of Creating Healthy Habitat for the Rusty-patched Bumblebee"
West Cook Wild Ones loves science– scientists explain the world to us and impact many parts of our lives. One of these areas is our own yards or landscapes in which we we work or live. Science is telling us that even if we are in an urban area, our yards are incredibly important, providing […] Continue reading "Standing for Science in Your Yard"
Ms. Fisher’s talk “Native Bees in the Garden” will discuss our wild native bees from a gardener’s perspective. Everyone knows how important honey bees are for pollination, but native bees are even more important, especially in the garden. Topics will include the differences between native bees and honey bees, their life cycles, what they like for […] Continue reading "Native bees in the garden."