Uncovering the Secrets of Alaska’s Native Bees

For many years, scientists have had limited knowledge about Alaska’s native bees. However, efforts are underway to change this.

On a warm July afternoon near Fairbanks, a volunteer from the Alaska Bee Atlas participates in fieldwork. With a gentle sweep of a net, they capture a small bumblebee as it rests at the bottom. This is not an isolated incident but part of a larger initiative to collect thousands of bee specimens each summer across the state.

This simple act is part of a significant effort by Alaskans to better understand the bees that play a crucial role in pollinating the northern regions. The Alaska Bee Atlas represents a collaboration of people determined to study these vital pollinators and learn more about their habits and contributions to the ecosystem.