Join Terrell for this hands-on opportunity to learn how to observe, catch, and identify native bee species while on a walk through nature.

Native bees (and other pollinators) are of fundamental importance in balancing and maintaining native ecosystems and agricultural/horticultural practices. However, many people are not aware of the diversity of bee species in their surroundings—in British Columbia there are 500+ bee species alone, of the more than 40,000 species globally. This perspective is a shift in the conventional paradigm of what a ‘bee’ is, away from the non-native (and potentially invasive*) Western honey bee (a.k.a European honey bee; Apis mellifera). *Context dependant.

Terrell will demonstrate how to properly catch and store bees using the tools of the trade: A bug net, vial, cooler and icepacks. This experiential workshop will inspire environmental stewardship which can actually help save the ‘right’ bee species in peril (not the managed honey bee… although they are important for agriculture!).

Note for participants: Handling noxious animals is potentially dangerous and bee stings can hurt, participants are responsible for their own safety and allergies.