Dr. Ken Richards, recently retired scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at the Lethbridge Research Centre will discuss “Southern Alberta Bumble Bees: Why so many Species?”

Abstract: Over 20 species of bumble bee live in southern Alberta. How do so many species co-exist in this region? Dr. Richards will discuss through pictures where the species live within our diverse phytogeographic region, when they emerge from winter hibernation, where queens select nesting sites, brood construction and size, favorite native flowers visited for food, and some of the biological (parasites and predators) and external pressures on bee populations.

(Photo credit: Ken Orich)