The Western Bumble Bee is important for the pollination of a wide variety of wild plants, many of which we depend on for food, including wild vegetables, fruits, and nuts. It is also a keystone species of the Pacific Northwest, meaning that its presence is integral to the proper functioning of the region’s ecology. By protecting and preserving the Western Bumble Bee’s habitat, we can help to ensure that this crucial species can continue to thrive in the region for many generations to come.

The Western Bumble Bee is threatened by a number of factors, including habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, pesticide use, climate change, and the spread of non-native species. Habitat loss and fragmentation can limit the bee's ability to find suitable nesting and foraging sites, while pesticides can kill or contaminate the bee and its food. Climate change can also cause shifts in the bee's range, as well as changes in the timing of its biological activities, such as bee emergence and flowering of important food plants. Meanwhile, the spread of non-native species can lead to competition for resources and the spread of diseases. All of these factors can cause a decline in the population of the Western Bumble Bee.

IUCN Range Map

There are a number of actions that can be taken to restore and protect the Western Bumble Bee. These include conserving and restoring its native habitats, reducing pesticide use, restoring and creating pollinator-friendly habitats, and reducing the spread of non-native species.

Conserving and restoring native habitats is important for ensuring that the Western Bumble Bee has adequate foraging and nesting sites. This can be done through land-use planning, such as setting aside areas for bee habitat, or through restoration of degraded habitats.

Reducing pesticide use is also important for protecting the bee, as many pesticides are toxic to the bee and can affect its ability to forage and reproduce. Reducing the use of pesticides in areas where the bee is found is essential for its protection.

Creating and restoring pollinator-friendly habitats is another way to help protect the Western Bumble Bee. Pollinator-friendly habitats provide the bee with a range of food sources, nesting sites, and other resources. These habitats can be created or restored by planting native flowering plants, providing nesting sites, and protecting areas from development.

Finally, reducing the spread of non-native species is important for protecting the Western Bumble Bee. Non-native species can compete for resources, spread disease, and reduce the bee's ability to find suitable habitats. Controlling the spread of non-native species through monitoring and management is essential for protecting the bee.