Wild Bee ID 1.0

Wild Bee ID is a mobile application designed to serve as an essential resource for identifying bees and bee-friendly plants, fostering pollinator gardens, and educating individuals on how to contribute to the preservation of these vital species.

Approximately three quarters of the world's flowering plants rely on the pollination services of locally native bees for successful reproduction. Despite North America being home to over 4000 species of native bees, their populations are experiencing concerning declines continent-wide, primarily due to habitat destruction and exposure to pesticides. The absence of these endemic pollinators would have catastrophic effects on the majority of terrestrial ecosystems. However, many people remain unaware of the existence of native bees, their crucial role in ecosystems and food chains, and how home gardeners can play a part in supporting their numbers.

The intention behind the Wild Bee ID app is to introduce users to North America's native bees while empowering gardeners across the country to actively engage in their conservation efforts. With natural habitats progressively shrinking, residential gardens have emerged as significant refuges for numerous bee species. These resilient pollinators are constantly seeking urban environments, responding positively when suitable habitats are offered. By focusing on our own backyards and communal green spaces, we can contribute to the survival of native bees by collaboratively crafting a beautiful ecosystem that appeals to these essential creatures.