Aug. 20, 2023 9:45a
(WGTD)---A robust beehive of an endangered species has been discovered in Somers, leading environmentalists to believe that their work in improving habitat for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee is paying off.
A landowner last week stumbled across the nest near the south branch of the Pike River, not far from UW-Parkside’s cross- country course, which was the subject of a collaborative effort between Root-Pike WIN and the school to make the grounds more desirable for the bee, according to Kristi Heuser of Root-Pike WIN. "The problem with a lot of these areas is they're overrun with non-native and invasive species," said Heuser, adding that those conditions aren't conducive for the Rusty Patched bee.
The Rusty Patched Bumble Bee is considered much more effective than other species in pollinating plants—that’s why they’re so valuable. For a variety of reasons, their numbers have declined in recent years.
While Root-Pike WIN's work on the Parkside cross country course was designed specifically to improve habit for the bee, other projects that the non-profit has been engaged in also benefit the bee, Heuser said.
Experts from the state DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service examined the Somers nest last week. They said the nest is nearing the end of its natural life-cycle, but is believed to have spawned a number of queen bees that hopefully will successfully hibernate over the winter, then launch their own nests in the area next year.
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