Discovery of a massive concealed bee colony

Wild bees are essential for ecosystems, providing crucial pollination for both crops and native flora. While honeybees receive significant attention, most bee species are solitary, often nesting underground in habitats that can be easily overlooked and damaged. A surprising discovery in Ithaca, New York, showcased the abundance of these hidden pollinators.

Rachel Fordyce, who used to park at East Hill Plaza and walk through East Lawn Cemetery to her job at Cornell University’s entomology lab, noticed an unusual number of bees in the cemetery during spring 2022. After collecting samples, Cornell researchers identified them as Andrena regularis, a solitary mining bee that pollinates various plants. This casual observation led to a significant scientific finding.