Our Native Bees

Imported European honey bees get all the press, but more compelling is the story of North America’s native bees—species essential to our ecosystems and food supplies. In her travels with farmers, gardeners, and scientists, Paige Embry examines the vital role these pollinators play. Along the way, she hunts for a bumble bee that may be extinct, houses hibernating blue orchard bees in her refrigerator, and investigates an unlikely place for pollinator habitat: golf courses. Filled with Embry’s discoveries, both sobering and hopeful, Our Native Bees offers a rare exploration of these underappreciated natives so crucial to our survival.