Survey designed to glean much-need information on important insect; public urged to participate
ATHENS, Ga. -- Bumble bees are important pollinators of agricultural crops and wild plants, but little is known about their natural history in North America. Anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that bumble bee species are declining throughout the continent, but much more research is needed. University of Georgia doctoral student Athena Anderson is trying to fill this knowledge gap by conducting a bumble bee survey asking people throughout the U.S. to provide information on these interesting creatures.

The goal of this survey is to compile nest site and habitat features for bumble bees throughout North America and make this information available to anyone at no cost. Survey results and a narrative report will be available for viewing after each survey season is over, usually in November or December. By filling out this short survey when a bumble bee nest is found, participants will contribute to a growing body of knowledge that will help the scientific community understand and conserve these important pollinators.

To participate and fill out the survey, go online to http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=cjhCY0NWaVEzaGt5T09DUUNEQml3dmc6MA. Wichita's Great Plains Nature Center also has a the link to the survey on its Honeybee web page, http://www.gpnc.org/honeybee.htm. For more information, email Anderson at nestsurvey@yahoo.com.
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