The Bee's Knees

In this episode, we’re exploring a fresh approach to bee research. Gwen Kirschke is combining remote sensing technology with ecological research to map floral resources across large landscapes. Supported by a NASA space grant, Gwen's research aims to predict where bees nest and forage by mapping the flowers they rely on, offering crucial insights into resource distribution and its impact on bee populations. What's on your buzzy mind? Send us a text message and let us know!Thanks for listening! Visit our website to learn more about what we discussed today and subscribe to our newsletter.

Can having too many honeybee hives in our landscapes be detrimental? Dr. Ainhoa Magrach led a comprehensive review that brings fresh clarity to a long-standing question—how does the number of honeybee hives in a landscape affect wild pollinators, plant reproduction, and ecosystem health? We explore how the overuse of managed honeybees can sometimes undermine biodiversity and agricultural productivity and discuss sustainable practices that can make a difference. What's on your buzzy mind? Send us a text message and let us know!Thanks for listening! Visit our website to learn more about what we discussed today and subscribe to our newsletter.

Are we planting the right flowers for bees? We’re talking about the surprising dietary habits of wild bumble bees with Dr. Justin Bain who shares fascinating insights into how bumble bees choose their food and why it's essential for their survival. With climate change altering their natural habitats, understanding bee nutrition could be key to effective conservation efforts. What's on your buzzy mind? Send us a text message and let us know!Thanks for listening! Visit our website to learn more about what we discussed today and subscribe to our newsletter.

What does it mean to live with wild bees in an urban setting? Today we speak with Matthew Donahue who shares insights on how cities can be adapted to support bee populations. We discuss the differences between urban and wild habitats, the impact of bee stings, and actionable steps for creating bee-friendly environments in urban settings. Learn about the differences between bees and wasps, and discover how to coexist with and support these vital pollinators in your own neighborhood.What's on your buzzy mind? Send us a text message and let us know!Thanks for listening! Visit our website to learn more about what we discussed today and subscribe to our newsletter.

Why do some gardens buzz with life while others fall silent? In this episode, Dr. Laura Russo shares surprising findings from her research on floral diversity and bee populations. From urban parks to cattle fields, her team discovered that pollinator success isn’t about location—it’s all about the flowers. Listen in to learn what makes a garden irresistible to bees, and why your landscaping choices matter more than you think. What's on your buzzy mind? Send us a text message and let us know!Thanks for listening! Visit our website to learn more about what we discussed today and subscribe to our newsletter.