Meet the long-horned mining bee
The long-horned mining bee (Melissodes agilis shown)
This ground-nesting bee is native to North America
This lesser-known cousin of the charismatic honeybee provides similar benefits to other pollinators but is facing some very real challenges. Some species of long-horned bees (genus Eucera) are in trouble due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. These bees are native to North America and play an essential role in the pollination of wildflowers, fruit trees, and other crops.
According to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, several species of long-horned bees have experienced significant declines in recent years, and some are now considered endangered or threatened. For example, the federal government of the United States has listed the E. franklini species as an endangered species due to habitat loss and other factors.
Conservation efforts, such as the protection and restoration of natural habitats, reduction of pesticide use, and promotion of sustainable agriculture practices, can help support the long-horned bees and other pollinators.
If you’re interested in helping support populations of long-horned mining bees — and many other native bee species — in your own yard, here are some examples of plants that are known to be good sources of food for them:
Wildflowers: Long-horned mining bees are attracted to a variety of wildflowers, including purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), and wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa).
Goldenrod: Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is a late-season bloomer that provides an important source of nectar and pollen for many bee species, including the long-horned mining bee.
Wild rose: Wild rose (Rosa spp.) is a shrub that produces fragrant, pink flowers that are attractive to many bee species, including the long-horned mining bee.
Sunflowers: Sunflowers (Helianthus spp.) produce large, showy flowers that are attractive to many bee species, including the long-horned mining bee.
Milkweed: Milkweed (Asclepias spp.) is an important plant for many bee species, including the long-horned mining bee, because it provides a source of nectar and pollen as well as a place to lay their eggs.
By planting a variety of native wildflowers and other flowering plants, you can help to support populations of the long-horned mining bee and other important bee species in your area.