Bees are vital to Idaho's ecosystems and agricultural
economy, serving as key pollinators for crops, wild plants, and native
vegetation. The Treasure Valley, with its fertile soils and ideal climate, is
home to both wild and managed bee populations that play an essential role in
maintaining biodiversity and ensuring agricultural productivity. From honeybees
to native species, these pollinators are crucial for supporting crops such as
fruits, vegetables, and seeds, making them indispensable, to the region's farmers
and gardeners. Protecting and encouraging healthy bee populations is vital not
only for Idaho’s agricultural success but also for preserving its diverse
natural habitats.
Idaho's landscapes host a variety of bee species. Three of the over twenty species of bumble bees that have been observed in various regions of Idaho on a myriad of plants are summarized below.
.png)
Red-Belted Bumble Bee
(Bombus rufocinctus)
This beauty thrives in higher elevations, such as the Northern Rockies and Idaho Batholith, foraging on plants like lupines, sweet clover, and knapweed. It is a significant pollinator in meadows, forests, and shrublands.
Idaho's landscapes host a variety of bee species. Three of the over twenty species of bumble bees that have been observed in various regions of Idaho on a myriad of plants are summarized below.
.png)
(Bombus rufocinctus)
This beauty thrives in higher elevations, such as the Northern Rockies and Idaho Batholith, foraging on plants like lupines, sweet clover, and knapweed. It is a significant pollinator in meadows, forests, and shrublands.
(Bombus huntii)
The Hunt’s Bumble Bee is highly adaptable, thriving in diverse
habitats such as riparian zones and shrublands, often visiting flowers like
teasel and lupine.
(Bombus morrisoni)
This Bumble Bee is found in grasslands,
sagebrush steppes, and even urban parks, where it pollinates a wide range of
flowering plants including milkweed, thistle and bee balm. The Morrison Bumble
Bee population has been in decline in recent years and the monitoring of it is
of particular interest.
Supporting Idaho’s bee populations requires community action. Planting native flowers, creating pollinator gardens, reducing pesticide use, and preserving wild habitats are essential steps to help bees thrive. Small efforts, like planting diverse flowers in urban areas or leaving natural spaces untouched, can significantly impact the survival of these pollinators. By fostering environments that support healthy bee populations, we not only contribute to agricultural productivity but also sustain the natural beauty and biodiversity of Idaho. For more information on creating pollinator-friendly spaces, visit Creating Bee Habitat in Idaho or Planting a Bee Garden. Together, we can ensure that Idaho’s bees—and the ecosystems they support—thrive for generations to come.
