Nature NB is conducting field surveys in Fredericton this summer to study native bumblebees, aiming to map their locations and habitats in New Brunswick and the Maritimes. Led by program coordinator Francie Morgan, the initiative seeks to establish a foundation for conservation efforts and informed decision-making to protect pollinators. Nature NB collaborates with various organizations, including the Amlamgog Habitat Recovery team and EOS Eco-Energy, in this mapping endeavor.
The team is currently surveying three sites in Fredericton, identifying bumblebee species based on distinct color patterns and shapes. Despite the early stage of the season, six different species were already documented in June. Data collected is shared with organizations like the Unama’ki Institute and iNaturalist to benefit research and conservation efforts on a broader scale.
As the province drafts a recovery strategy for threatened bumblebee species, the importance of understanding and monitoring bumblebee populations becomes evident. Shaylyn Wallace from the Department of Natural Resources emphasizes the need for support from researchers and nonprofits to fill existing knowledge gaps. Bumblebees play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem stability and resilience, making conservation efforts essential.
Encouraging local residents to support wild pollinators, Morgan suggests allowing yard spaces to grow naturally to create foraging habitats for bumblebees. By preserving native plants, individuals can contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. The initiative comes at a pivotal time, aligning with the province’s focus on protecting endangered bumblebee species and promoting biodiversity.