The Fascinating World of Big Bees in Maryland

Maryland is home to an incredibly diverse range of bee species, from the iconic honeybee to the lumbering carpenter bees. But some of the most impressive bees buzzing around the Old Line State are the big, chunky bumblebees that frequent gardens and meadows. These furry, colorful insects play a critical role in pollinating crops and wildflowers in Maryland. Let’s take a closer look at these captivating creatures – the big bees of Maryland.

When people think of big bees, bumblebees usually come to mind first. These are rotund, fuzzy bees with black and yellow or orange stripes. Bumblebees are larger than honeybees and make a distinct buzzing noise as they fly from flower to flower. There are over 20 different species of bumblebees in Maryland.

Carpenter bees are another type of big bee found in the state. They resemble bumblebees in size and shape but have a shiny black abdomen and lack the colorful furry stripes. Female carpenter bees have a stinger but rarely sting unless provoked. Unlike bumblebees, carpenter bees nest by tunneling into wood, hence their name.

The other major group of chunky bees in Maryland are mining bees. There are over 80 species of mining bees documented in the state. They have slender, hairy bodies and carry pollen on their legs and thorax. Mining bees make solitary underground nests rather than living in colonies like honeybees.

Why Are They So Big?

The size of bees depends largely on their nesting and feeding behaviors Bumblebees and carpenter bees don’t store food like honeybees Their colonies are much smaller, so the bees need to be larger and furrier to maintain their body heat while out foraging. Their size also allows them to fly in cooler and wetter conditions than smaller bees.

Mining bees dig out underground burrows to lay their eggs in, which requires strength and sturdiness. Additionally, their fuzzy coats help keep soil from clinging to them while they work. The large size and robust body of big bees allows them to perform their unique nesting habits.

The Benefits of Big Bees

Though they don’t produce honey, bumblebees and other chunky bees are extremely valuable as pollinators. Bumblebees are particularly well-suited to pollinating tomatoes, peppers, and other crops grown in greenhouses thanks to their ability to buzz pollinate. Their larger size also enables them to manipulate certain flower types.

Big bees like carpenter bees and bumblebees have longer tongues that can reach nectar in flowers with deeper cups, like lilies and foxgloves. Having a diversity of bee sizes and shapes allows more plant species to be effectively pollinated.

These hefty buzzers also play a role in pollinating wildflowers and native plants. Their hearty size lets them fly in wet, cold springs when smaller bees stay hunkered down in their nests. Native plants bloom early to take advantage of the big bees’ foraging.

Identifying Common Big Bee Species in Maryland

Maryland is home to a number of chunky bee species that gardeners, naturalists, and casual observers may spot on flowers. Here are some tips for identifying the most frequently seen big bees:

• Bumblebees: Look for plump, fuzzy bodies with black and yellow, orange, or white stripes. They make a loud buzz compared to other bees. Different bumblebee species have distinctive color patterns.

• Carpenter bees: Robust, shiny black abdomen and thorax. Large females will have a stinger. Males have a yellow spot on their face and hover near nest sites.

• Mining bees: Slender bodies covered in gray, white, or black hairs. Females carry pollen on their legs and thorax. Males have white or yellow facial markings. Nest underground.

• Squash bees: Tiny but robust, these hairy bees have a fox-like face. Only females have pollen-carrying hairs for nest provisions. Found around squash and pumpkin flowers.

• Leafcutter bees: Look for bees carrying neat circles of leaves or flower petals back to their nest. Very large, fuzzy bees with pointed abdomens.

Providing Habitat to Support Big Bees

Though large, bumblebees and their chunky cousins are encountering habitat loss and pesticide use that threatens populations. Gardeners and landowners can help conserve these important pollinators by providing habitat.

Here are some tips for making your yard, farm, or garden more friendly to big bees:

• Plant native wildflowers that provide nectar and pollen from early spring to fall. Focus on daisy-like composites and flowering vines.

• Leave dead snags and treestumps for nesting carpenter bees. They also need mud puddles to build their nests.

• Allow fallen leaves and undisturbed soil areas for ground-nesting bumblebees and mining bees.

• Avoid pesticides that can be harmful to bees. Stick with natural or organic approaches to pest control.

• Provide bee houses for leafcutter bees and mason bees. Make sure they get morning sun and are protected from rain.

• Consider installing a small bee watering station for thirsty foragers. Make sure to refresh water regularly.

From the social bumblebees to the solitary mining bees, Maryland is abuzz with an array of amazing big bee species. Take time to appreciate these important and beneficial insects wherever flowers are blooming. Learning to identify and support our chunky native bee residents will help ensure bountiful garden harvests and healthy ecosystems. Big bees do big jobs in Maryland’s gardens and natural areas, so let’s make sure they have what they need to thrive.