A podcast wild about native bees
We’re exploring the surprising relationship between leafcutter bees and Aspergillus mold. Our guest, Dr. Victoria Luizzi, sheds light on how this mold might actually protect these solitary pollinators. Despite mold usually having a bad rap, this particular type, commonly found …
The Fungi Factor: The Surprising Discovery of Mold’s Impact on Leafcutter Bees (Ep. 52) Read more »
Native bees are indispensable to our ecosystems, yet they face numerous threats daily. The rise in pesticide use, habitat destruction, and the looming pressures of climate change have made their survival precarious. Today we’re talking with Dr. Johanne Brunet, delving …
In a world where wild and native bees face increasing threats, it’s crucial to come together and protect these vital pollinators. With their integral role in maintaining biodiversity, our buzzing friends need the support of communities everywhere. Today, we’re talking …
Building Buzz: Community Efforts to Support Native Bees (Ep. 50) Read more »
In the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, an extraordinary effort is underway to save a unique and crucial pollinator: the melipona bee. This tropical stingless bee is not just vital for biodiversity but deeply intertwined with the Mayan culture. Join …
Have you ever wondered why bees don’t always choose the flowers that seem to offer the best buffet of nectar and pollen? Dr. Claire Hemingway has been studying the complex decisions bees make as they navigate a landscape blooming with …
Pollinators and the Art of Choice: Navigating the Chemistry of Floral Rewards (Ep. 48) Read more »
Both wild pollinators and honeybees provide numerous benefits to society, from food security to the conservation of biodiversity. Today we’re talking about the PollinAction project whose goal is to mitigate the pollination crisis through strategic planning and implementation of green …
From Bloom to Boom: How PollinAction is Reviving Pollinator Populations (Ep. 47) Read more »
Welcome to Season 3 of The Bee’s Knees! This season we’ll be highlighting bee enthusiasts even more than ever. From those ardent researchers who continue their quest for knowledge and generously share it with us to the local defenders who …
Bees + flowers = pollination. Climate change is turning up the heat on our native bees. A new study shows that when temperatures soar, bumblebees struggle to pick up on the scents of flowers, which is very important for their …
Scent of Survival: How do Heatwaves Impact Bumblebees? (Ep. 45) Read more »
Today, we’re taking a compelling look at the intersection of pollination and urban ecology, showcasing the resilience of nature amid the ongoing challenges of city life. Bees and other pollinators grapple with obstacles such as air pollution, artificial lighting, and …
Urban Buzz: Transforming Pollination in Cityscapes (Ep. 44) Read more »
In the vibrant tapestry of our ecosystem, bees play an indispensable role. Yet, these industrious pollinators face tremendous challenges, particularly during critical periods of their life cycles. Today we discuss the “hungry gap,” a pivotal time in early spring when …