DOWN THE GARDEN PATH
Discover wild bees in Missouri and Kansas, earn plants and build your own pollinator garden!
START
By: Abigail Landwehr
Hello there, fellow gardener.
Welcome to the seed shop!
Uh... what shop? →
BACK ⟲
Welcome to the seed shop!
Ah! There we go.
Hello there, fellow gardener.
Oh, that’s embarrassing.
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
Okay, let me try again.
I forgot to turn on the lights.
Welcome to the seed shop!
AHEM.
Ah, now I see!
Uh... what shop? →
BACK ⟲
Welcome to the seed shop!
Ah! There we go.
Oh, that’s embarrassing.
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
I forgot to turn on the lights.
Okay, let me try again.
AHEM.
Ah, now I see!
Welcome to the seed shop!
On that note,
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
I heard you might be interested in helping save the bees?
Ah, now I see!
Yes I am!
Sounds like a lot of work...
Well, one of the best ways to support bees is something you can do in your own backyard.
On that note,
Luckily, I’m here to help you get your hands dirty!
I heard you might be interested in helping save the bees?
I can show you some of my favorite plants, and you’ll be able to grow and design your very own garden!
So, what do you say?
Yes I am!
Sounds like a lot of work...
Let's do it! →
So what's all the buzz about?
MEET SOME MISSOURI AND KANSAS POLLINATORS:
Well, one of the best ways to support bees is something you can do in your own backyard.
Luckily, I’m here to help you get your hands dirty!
HONEYBEES
Before we get started, I should introduce you to who you’ll be sharing your new garden with.
- Not native to America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops.
- Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
I can show you some of my favorite plants, and you’ll be able to grow and design your very own garden!
2/10 →
Drumroll, please...
So, what do you say?
CARPENTER BEES
- Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.
- Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.
- Can live for up to three years.
Let's do it! →
So what's all the buzz about?
MEET SOME MISSOURI AND KANSAS POLLINATORS:
HONEYBEES
- Not native to America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops.
- Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
2/10 →
CARPENTER BEES
- Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.
- Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.
- Can live for up to three years.
BUMBLE BEES
- Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows.
- Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen.
- Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
DIGGER/MINING BEES
5/10 →
- Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.
- Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.
- Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
BACK ⟲
LONG-HORNED BEES
- Extra long antennae.
- Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground.
- Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
SWEAT BEES
- Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.
- Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive.
- Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
MASKED BEES
8/10 →
- Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.
- Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches.
- Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
BACK ⟲
CUCKOO BEES
- Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.
- Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.
- Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
SQUASH BEES
- Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins.
- Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.
- Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Help classify native Missouri and Kansas bees to earn plants for your own garden.
10/10 →
BACK ⟲
LEAFCUTTER/MASON BEES
- Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest to hold pollen.
- Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells.
- Both known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
BACK ⟲
Help classify native Missouri and Kansas bees to earn plants for your own garden.
- Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins.
- Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.
- Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
SQUASH BEES
- Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest to hold pollen.
- Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells.
- Both known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
LEAFCUTTER/MASON BEES
10/10 →
BACK ⟲
There's good news!
Speaking of a wide range,
But these bee populations are disappearing because of habitat loss, environmental changes, diseases, pesticide use and other factors.
Did you know there are over 400 species of bees in Missouri and Kansas?
Gardens with native plants attract and support a wide range of pollinators.
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
You can support them at home by creating a garden that reminds them of their home.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
There's good news!
Speaking of a wide range,
But these bee populations are disappearing because of habitat loss, environmental changes, diseases, pesticide use and other factors.
Did you know there are over 400 species of bees in Missouri and Kansas?
Gardens with native plants attract and support a wide range of pollinators.
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
You can support them at home by creating a garden that reminds them of their home.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
My favorite is actually right up here on this top shelf.
Woah,
Hmm… I can’t seem to reach it.
Hmm…
woah,
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Oh no. I lost my balance.
Not a problem, let me grab my ladder real quick.
WOAH!
Speaking of a wide range,
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
What a mess...
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
My favorite is actually right up here on this top shelf.
Woah,
Hmm… I can’t seem to reach it.
Hmm…
woah,
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Oh no. I lost my balance.
Not a problem, let me grab my ladder real quick.
WOAH!
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
What a mess...
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Let’s start by sweeping up this trash and gathering up all of the seeds and packets.
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
Click the broom to get started.
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
1/5
5/5
4/5
3/5
2/5
Move the dirt and debris by dragging it to the side and clicking on each of the objects to gather them up.
…meanwhile, I’ll go find another broom.
Continue on →
Clean as a whistle!
Now that we have the seeds, let's sort the packets.
Things are looking up already.
Let's do it.
Flip over each seed packet and use your trusty memory to find the matching pairs.
Organize each pair by clicking on the matching bees.
Now that we have the seeds, let's sort the packets.
Let's do it.
Woohoo! Great work!
Here's just a few more pairs to match.
Woohoo! Great work!
Here's just a few more pairs to match.
Did you know in your own garden that you can identify bees by looking closely at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
You're doing great!
You’re as sharp as the gardening trowel I fell on earlier... ouch.
Can you tell me more?
Wow, how interesting.
ouch.
Did you know in your own garden that you can identify bees by looking closely at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
Let's start planting some of these extra seeds.
There’s probably a much simpler way to do this, but who doesn’t love a learning opportunity?
Can you tell me more?
Wow, how interesting.
Let's give it a try!
Pssssst!
Your bee guide can be accessed by clicking the button above (↖)
Go on, give it a try!
Let's start planting some of these extra seeds.
There’s probably a much simpler way to do this, but who doesn’t love a learning opportunity?
Let's give it a try!
Click here when you're ready to begin.
START →
Pssssst!
Don't forget that your bee guide can also be accessed here!
Your bee guide can be accessed by clicking the button above (↖)
Which bee creates tiny tunnels in wood for its nests?
Go on, give it a try!
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Use your newfound knowledge to answer each question by clicking the pot with the label of the correct bee.
Click here when you're ready to begin.
START →
Which bee is attracted to salt in sweat?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee nests in clay and loose soil?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee cuts up pieces of leaves and flowers for their nests?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee only pollinates squash and pumpkins?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee only pollinates squash and pumpkins?
You better bee-lieve it, you're on a roll!
That's almost all the plants, just a few more to go.
NEXT →
Ready to try some trickier ones?
I got this!
Which bee will sometimes nest in old rodent burrows?
You better bee-lieve it, you're on a roll!
That's almost all the plants, just a few more to go.
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Ready to try some trickier ones?
I got this!
Which bee has extra long antennae?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee carries pollen back to its nest by swallowing it?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee lives a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on its own?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee is not native to Missouri/Kansas?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
BACK ⟲
And my shop is all fixed up too!
Which bee is not native to Missouri/Kansas?
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
NEXT →
Congratulations!
Maybe avoid ladders too...
You’re an honorary bee expert now.
BACK ⟲
And my shop is all fixed up too!
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
Congratulations!
Maybe avoid ladders too...
You’re an honorary bee expert now.
BACK ⟲
And I have something else for you too.
And my shop is all fixed up too!
Use this watering can to grow your new plants!
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
Noted.
I appreciate your help so much, I want to give you 10 different seeds so you can start your own garden.
Maybe avoid ladders too...
And hey, I am a man of my word.
Thank you!
BACK ⟲
And I have something else for you too.
Use this watering can to grow your new plants!
Noted.
I appreciate your help so much, I want to give you 10 different seeds so you can start your own garden.
And hey, I am a man of my word.
Thank you!
And I have something else for you too.
Use this to grow your new plants!
Click on the pot to reveal the plants for your new garden!
Thank you!
Click on the pot to reveal the plants for your new garden!
You've earned it!
Hover over each plant to learn more about what’s growing in your backyard.
2/10 →
2/10 →
BACK ⟲
4/10 →
BACK ⟲
4/10 →
BACK ⟲
6/10 →
BACK ⟲
6/10 →
BACK ⟲
8/10 →
BACK ⟲
8/10 →
BACK ⟲
10/10 →
Thank you for all your help!
I’m biased, but I think you have a beautiful selection here.
The bees will think so too!
10/10 →
Done! →
Click and hold to drag each plant to design your own pollinator garden!
(Psst. The bees brought you gifts! Give three of them a click and they may leave something for your new garden!)
Thank you for all your help!
I’m biased, but I think you have a beautiful selection here.
The bees will think so too!
Continue →
This game is based off of real interviews with
Hunter Moore
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
BACK ⟲
Continue →
Created by Abigail Landwehr for Kansas City PBS Flatland
This game is based off of real interviews with
Graphics are created from pictures sourced from the Missouri Department of Conservation, Creative Commons and through Adobe Firefly.
You’ve proved you’ve got a green thumb!
PLAY AGAIN?
Want to build a real-life garden?
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Hunter Moore
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
BACK ⟲
Created by Abigail Landwehr for Kansas City PBS Flatland
Graphics are created from pictures sourced from the Missouri Department of Conservation, Creative Commons and through Adobe Firefly.
You’ve proved you’ve got a green thumb!
PLAY AGAIN?
Want to build a real-life garden?
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Hunter Moore
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
You've proved that you have a green thumb!
Native garden resources:
Deep Roots, a local environmental organization, offers resources on how to start building a native garden and information about native plant sales. Grow Native, an initiative from the Missouri Prairie Foundation, offers more resources about what plants would work best for a pollinator garden, including a searchable database and curated lists.
- What plants would work best?
- What seasons should I plant for?
Check the links to learn more! →
- Where can I find native plants?
Not a problem! Hit the X to go back. Click the done button when you're ready to go!
Wow!
You've made such a great garden.
Would you like to move on to the credits or stay and admire your garden just a little bit longer?
Let's wrap it up!
I'd like to stay please.
You've proved that you have a green thumb!
Native garden resources:
Deep Roots, a local environmental organization, offers resources on how to start building a native garden and information about native plant sales. Grow Native, an initiative from the Missouri Prairie Foundation, offers more resources about what plants would work best for a pollinator garden, including a searchable database and curated lists.
- What plants would work best?
- What seasons should I plant for?
Check the links to learn more! →
- Where can I find native plants?
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Feel free to refresh on some of the facts you learned earlier about each species.
Ah! You've found our seed catalog.
How to Identify Bees
MDC Bee Identification Guide
"Bees, like other insects, have three body segments: a head, thorax and abdomen. The head has compound and simple eyes, segmented antennae, and mouthparts, including mandibles for chewing, and the proboscis for drinking nectar. The thorax bears the legs and four wings (two forewings and two hind-wings coupled by tiny hooks). The abdomen contains the sting in females."
The Missouri Department of Conservation
Continue →
How to Identify Bees
MDC Bee Identification Guide
"Bees, like other insects, have three body segments: a head, thorax and abdomen. The head has compound and simple eyes, segmented antennae, and mouthparts, including mandibles for chewing, and the proboscis for drinking nectar. The thorax bears the legs and four wings (two forewings and two hind-wings coupled by tiny hooks). The abdomen contains the sting in females."
The Missouri Department of Conservation
Continue →
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Down The Garden Path
Abigail Landwehr
Created on August 6, 2025
Discover wild bees in Missouri and Kansas, earn plants and build your own pollinator garden!
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Transcript
DOWN THE GARDEN PATH
Discover wild bees in Missouri and Kansas, earn plants and build your own pollinator garden!
START
By: Abigail Landwehr
Hello there, fellow gardener.
Welcome to the seed shop!
Uh... what shop? →
BACK ⟲
Welcome to the seed shop!
Ah! There we go.
Hello there, fellow gardener.
Oh, that’s embarrassing.
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
Okay, let me try again.
I forgot to turn on the lights.
Welcome to the seed shop!
AHEM.
Ah, now I see!
Uh... what shop? →
BACK ⟲
Welcome to the seed shop!
Ah! There we go.
Oh, that’s embarrassing.
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
I forgot to turn on the lights.
Okay, let me try again.
AHEM.
Ah, now I see!
Welcome to the seed shop!
On that note,
Think of us as your one stop shop for any sort of gardening needs.
I heard you might be interested in helping save the bees?
Ah, now I see!
Yes I am!
Sounds like a lot of work...
Well, one of the best ways to support bees is something you can do in your own backyard.
On that note,
Luckily, I’m here to help you get your hands dirty!
I heard you might be interested in helping save the bees?
I can show you some of my favorite plants, and you’ll be able to grow and design your very own garden!
So, what do you say?
Yes I am!
Sounds like a lot of work...
Let's do it! →
So what's all the buzz about?
MEET SOME MISSOURI AND KANSAS POLLINATORS:
Well, one of the best ways to support bees is something you can do in your own backyard.
Luckily, I’m here to help you get your hands dirty!
HONEYBEES
Before we get started, I should introduce you to who you’ll be sharing your new garden with.
I can show you some of my favorite plants, and you’ll be able to grow and design your very own garden!
2/10 →
Drumroll, please...
So, what do you say?
CARPENTER BEES
Let's do it! →
So what's all the buzz about?
MEET SOME MISSOURI AND KANSAS POLLINATORS:
HONEYBEES
2/10 →
CARPENTER BEES
BUMBLE BEES
DIGGER/MINING BEES
5/10 →
BACK ⟲
LONG-HORNED BEES
SWEAT BEES
MASKED BEES
8/10 →
BACK ⟲
CUCKOO BEES
SQUASH BEES
Help classify native Missouri and Kansas bees to earn plants for your own garden.
10/10 →
BACK ⟲
LEAFCUTTER/MASON BEES
BACK ⟲
Help classify native Missouri and Kansas bees to earn plants for your own garden.
SQUASH BEES
LEAFCUTTER/MASON BEES
10/10 →
BACK ⟲
There's good news!
Speaking of a wide range,
But these bee populations are disappearing because of habitat loss, environmental changes, diseases, pesticide use and other factors.
Did you know there are over 400 species of bees in Missouri and Kansas?
Gardens with native plants attract and support a wide range of pollinators.
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
You can support them at home by creating a garden that reminds them of their home.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
There's good news!
Speaking of a wide range,
But these bee populations are disappearing because of habitat loss, environmental changes, diseases, pesticide use and other factors.
Did you know there are over 400 species of bees in Missouri and Kansas?
Gardens with native plants attract and support a wide range of pollinators.
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
You can support them at home by creating a garden that reminds them of their home.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
My favorite is actually right up here on this top shelf.
Woah,
Hmm… I can’t seem to reach it.
Hmm…
woah,
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Oh no. I lost my balance.
Not a problem, let me grab my ladder real quick.
WOAH!
Speaking of a wide range,
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
What a mess...
we have plenty of seed options here too, if I do say so myself.
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
What would you recommend?
What type of seeds do you have?
BACK ⟲
My favorite is actually right up here on this top shelf.
Woah,
Hmm… I can’t seem to reach it.
Hmm…
woah,
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Oh no. I lost my balance.
Not a problem, let me grab my ladder real quick.
WOAH!
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
What a mess...
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
I’m embarrassed to ask, but could you help me re-sort these packets?
Let’s start by sweeping up this trash and gathering up all of the seeds and packets.
It’s a big job, so I could give you a few free plants for your new garden in exchange for your help.
Click the broom to get started.
What would I need to do?
Sure, I’ll lend a hand.
1/5
5/5
4/5
3/5
2/5
Move the dirt and debris by dragging it to the side and clicking on each of the objects to gather them up.
…meanwhile, I’ll go find another broom.
Continue on →
Clean as a whistle!
Now that we have the seeds, let's sort the packets.
Things are looking up already.
Let's do it.
Flip over each seed packet and use your trusty memory to find the matching pairs.
Organize each pair by clicking on the matching bees.
Now that we have the seeds, let's sort the packets.
Let's do it.
Woohoo! Great work!
Here's just a few more pairs to match.
Woohoo! Great work!
Here's just a few more pairs to match.
Did you know in your own garden that you can identify bees by looking closely at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
You're doing great!
You’re as sharp as the gardening trowel I fell on earlier... ouch.
Can you tell me more?
Wow, how interesting.
ouch.
Did you know in your own garden that you can identify bees by looking closely at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
at their head, thorax, and abdomen?
Let's start planting some of these extra seeds.
There’s probably a much simpler way to do this, but who doesn’t love a learning opportunity?
Can you tell me more?
Wow, how interesting.
Let's give it a try!
Pssssst!
Your bee guide can be accessed by clicking the button above (↖)
Go on, give it a try!
Let's start planting some of these extra seeds.
There’s probably a much simpler way to do this, but who doesn’t love a learning opportunity?
Let's give it a try!
Click here when you're ready to begin.
START →
Pssssst!
Don't forget that your bee guide can also be accessed here!
Your bee guide can be accessed by clicking the button above (↖)
Which bee creates tiny tunnels in wood for its nests?
Go on, give it a try!
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Use your newfound knowledge to answer each question by clicking the pot with the label of the correct bee.
Click here when you're ready to begin.
START →
Which bee is attracted to salt in sweat?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee nests in clay and loose soil?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee cuts up pieces of leaves and flowers for their nests?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee only pollinates squash and pumpkins?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee only pollinates squash and pumpkins?
You better bee-lieve it, you're on a roll!
That's almost all the plants, just a few more to go.
NEXT →
Ready to try some trickier ones?
I got this!
Which bee will sometimes nest in old rodent burrows?
You better bee-lieve it, you're on a roll!
That's almost all the plants, just a few more to go.
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Ready to try some trickier ones?
I got this!
Which bee has extra long antennae?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee carries pollen back to its nest by swallowing it?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee lives a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on its own?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
Which bee is not native to Missouri/Kansas?
NEXT →
Not quite, try again!
BACK ⟲
And my shop is all fixed up too!
Which bee is not native to Missouri/Kansas?
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
NEXT →
Congratulations!
Maybe avoid ladders too...
You’re an honorary bee expert now.
BACK ⟲
And my shop is all fixed up too!
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
Congratulations!
Maybe avoid ladders too...
You’re an honorary bee expert now.
BACK ⟲
And I have something else for you too.
And my shop is all fixed up too!
Use this watering can to grow your new plants!
From now on, I think I’ll keep my seeds where I can reach them.
Noted.
I appreciate your help so much, I want to give you 10 different seeds so you can start your own garden.
Maybe avoid ladders too...
And hey, I am a man of my word.
Thank you!
BACK ⟲
And I have something else for you too.
Use this watering can to grow your new plants!
Noted.
I appreciate your help so much, I want to give you 10 different seeds so you can start your own garden.
And hey, I am a man of my word.
Thank you!
And I have something else for you too.
Use this to grow your new plants!
Click on the pot to reveal the plants for your new garden!
Thank you!
Click on the pot to reveal the plants for your new garden!
You've earned it!
Hover over each plant to learn more about what’s growing in your backyard.
2/10 →
2/10 →
BACK ⟲
4/10 →
BACK ⟲
4/10 →
BACK ⟲
6/10 →
BACK ⟲
6/10 →
BACK ⟲
8/10 →
BACK ⟲
8/10 →
BACK ⟲
10/10 →
Thank you for all your help!
I’m biased, but I think you have a beautiful selection here.
The bees will think so too!
10/10 →
Done! →
Click and hold to drag each plant to design your own pollinator garden!
(Psst. The bees brought you gifts! Give three of them a click and they may leave something for your new garden!)
Thank you for all your help!
I’m biased, but I think you have a beautiful selection here.
The bees will think so too!
Continue →
This game is based off of real interviews with
Hunter Moore
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
BACK ⟲
Continue →
Created by Abigail Landwehr for Kansas City PBS Flatland
This game is based off of real interviews with
Graphics are created from pictures sourced from the Missouri Department of Conservation, Creative Commons and through Adobe Firefly.
You’ve proved you’ve got a green thumb!
PLAY AGAIN?
Want to build a real-life garden?
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Hunter Moore
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
BACK ⟲
Created by Abigail Landwehr for Kansas City PBS Flatland
Graphics are created from pictures sourced from the Missouri Department of Conservation, Creative Commons and through Adobe Firefly.
You’ve proved you’ve got a green thumb!
PLAY AGAIN?
Want to build a real-life garden?
Lindsay Hoyt
Tamra Reall
Hunter Moore
Tom Schroeder
Cydney Ross
KC Wildlands
Bonny in Time
Deep Roots
MU Extension
KC Wildlands
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
You've proved that you have a green thumb!
Native garden resources:
Deep Roots, a local environmental organization, offers resources on how to start building a native garden and information about native plant sales. Grow Native, an initiative from the Missouri Prairie Foundation, offers more resources about what plants would work best for a pollinator garden, including a searchable database and curated lists.
Check the links to learn more! →
Not a problem! Hit the X to go back. Click the done button when you're ready to go!
Wow!
You've made such a great garden.
Would you like to move on to the credits or stay and admire your garden just a little bit longer?
Let's wrap it up!
I'd like to stay please.
You've proved that you have a green thumb!
Native garden resources:
Deep Roots, a local environmental organization, offers resources on how to start building a native garden and information about native plant sales. Grow Native, an initiative from the Missouri Prairie Foundation, offers more resources about what plants would work best for a pollinator garden, including a searchable database and curated lists.
Check the links to learn more! →
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Feel free to refresh on some of the facts you learned earlier about each species.
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How to Identify Bees
MDC Bee Identification Guide
"Bees, like other insects, have three body segments: a head, thorax and abdomen. The head has compound and simple eyes, segmented antennae, and mouthparts, including mandibles for chewing, and the proboscis for drinking nectar. The thorax bears the legs and four wings (two forewings and two hind-wings coupled by tiny hooks). The abdomen contains the sting in females."
The Missouri Department of Conservation
Continue →
How to Identify Bees
MDC Bee Identification Guide
"Bees, like other insects, have three body segments: a head, thorax and abdomen. The head has compound and simple eyes, segmented antennae, and mouthparts, including mandibles for chewing, and the proboscis for drinking nectar. The thorax bears the legs and four wings (two forewings and two hind-wings coupled by tiny hooks). The abdomen contains the sting in females."
The Missouri Department of Conservation
Continue →
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.
Social and nest underground, sometimes in old rodent burrows. Can "buzz polinate" flowers and shake plants to release pollen. Make a small amount of honey to feed the colony on bad winter days.
Live a parasitic lifestyle and can't build nests on their own.Lay eggs in other bee's nest, steal food and other eggs.Don't collect pollen, but visit flowers for nectar and energy.
Mason bees use clay and mud to make cells in their nest that hold balls of pollen. Leafcutter bees cut up pieces of leaves and flowers to also build cells. Both are known for visiting fruit trees and are helpful in orchards.
Create tiny tunnels in wood for nests.Male bees don't sting, but females can if feeling threatened.Can live for up to three years.
Not native to North America. Brought over by European settlers in the 1900s as a source of sugar and to help pollinate different crops. Are able to fly as fast as 15 miles per hour.
Earned the name by being attracted to the salt in sweat.Very small bees measuring ¼–¾ inch, and are not aggressive. Have a shiny, metallic look to them.
Hold the title of being the first bees to emerge each season.Living underground, prefer to nest in clay and loose soil.Friendly and normally don't sting or bite.
Only pollinate kinds of squash and pumpkins. Early risers and like to work before other pollinators are up.Long faces also give the appearance of a “big nose.”
Have heart-shaped faces with white and yellow markings.Tend to nest in different kinds of twigs and branches. Carry pollen back to nests by swallowing it.
Extra long antennae.Prefer to nest by themselves under the ground. Can often be found buzzing around wildflowers.