Survees

Survees, also known as survey bees, are a type of insect that belong to the family Halictidae, which includes bees that are often solitary and nest in the ground. Survees are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from 5 to 10 millimeters in length, and their distinctive black and yellow or orange stripes on their abdomen. They are found in various habitats, including meadows, forests, and gardens, and are known for their role in pollination.

The life cycle of survees begins with the emergence of adult bees from their overwintering sites in early spring. Female survees collect nectar and pollen from flowers to provision their nests, which they dig in the soil. Each female typically builds a single nest and lays a single egg in it before sealing it with a plug of chewed plant material. The larvae feed on the stored pollen and nectar, and when they are ready to emerge, they chew their way out of the nest, leaving behind a small hole that serves as the overwintering site for the adult bee.

Survees are important pollinators, as they visit a wide variety of flowers and transfer pollen between them. They are particularly attracted to flowers with open corollas and abundant nectar, such as those of clover, dandelion, and various wildflowers. Their small size and agile flight make them effective pollinators, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the health of plant communities.

Despite their ecological importance, survees are often overlooked and understudied. Conservation efforts for survees focus on preserving their habitats and protecting them from threats such as habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Survees are a fascinating and important group of insects that deserve more attention and protection in our natural world.