Our Native Bees: The Story of North America’s Essential Pollinators

Honey bees may steal the spotlight, but North America’s native bees are just as vital to our ecosystems and food supply. In Our Native Bees, author Paige Embry dives into the fascinating world of native bees, showcasing their critical role in agriculture, gardening, and the balance of nature.

Through engaging interviews with farmers, gardeners, scientists, and bee experts, Embry brings to life the importance of native bees and the unique challenges they face. She shares compelling stories, such as:

• Hunting for the possibly extinct Franklin’s bumble bee with the world’s leading expert.
• Raising blue orchard mason bees (Osmia lignaria) in her refrigerator.
• Visiting an organization transforming golf course out-of-play areas into pollinator habitats.

Book Highlights

• Chapter 3 Spotlight: Embry dedicates an entire chapter to Osmia lignaria (spring mason bees, also known as Blue Orchard Mason Bees) and her visit to Crown Bees’ warehouse, offering an inside look at the small but growing company.
• Engaging and Enlightening: Embry’s profiles of people and bees are both entertaining and deeply educational.

"Embry’s captivating profiles ... are as entertaining as they are enlightening." – Booklist

Discover the incredible stories behind North America’s native bees and why protecting them is crucial for our planet.