In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Dr. Carrie DeJaco, an ecological consultant and native plant expert, to explore the fascinating—and sometimes surprising—role of honeybees in pollination.

Dr. DeJaco shares that honeybees, while vital for commercial agriculture, are not native to the Americas and are classified as livestock by the USDA. Their presence often overshadows the crucial role of native pollinators, which are more effective at pollinating many crops. With over 500 native bee species in North Carolina alone, the importance of supporting native pollinators cannot be overstated.

The discussion highlights the challenges facing native pollinators, including habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition from honeybees. Dr. DeJaco provides practical advice for creating pollinator-friendly spaces, such as planting native flowering plants that bloom throughout the growing season and avoiding plants treated with harmful chemicals like neonicotinoids.

Dr. DeJaco also shares insights from her ecological consulting work and native plant nursery, offering resources for listeners interested in creating habitats that support native species.

This episode encourages listeners to think beyond honeybees and take action to preserve the diverse native pollinators that play a critical role in ecosystems and food production.

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