19-05-2025
Local uptick in solitary bees around the Wabash Valley
WABASH VALLEY (WTWO/WAWV) — With the warming temperatures and consistent rainfall, areas around the Wabash Valley have seen an uptick in solitary bees.
Good news, solitary bees do not sting.
'People calm down, especially when they find out that solitary bees don't like to sting,' said Tabba Flinn with the Purdue Extension – Vigo County.
Although, these specific types of insects do not produce honey. Rather, solitary bee's main purpose is to bring pollen from flower to flower and pollinate fruits and vegetable plants.
'Our solitary bees are really important pollinators. They're actually better at pollinating than our commercial honeybees are,' said Flinn. 'They're really important for our food systems in understanding their biology and when they're active.'
Late spring, until early summer is the most active time period for solitary bees. This time of year, you may see colonies, or tunnels near your yard or garden. Good news, the bees are only active for another month before they migrate.
Moving forward, if you have any questions or concerns about the bees, you can contact Purdue Extension – Vigo County anytime.
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