The Blueberry Bee (Osmia Ribofloris)

The honey bee is traditionally the main pollinator in Chenango County, New York. Unfortunately, due to the decrease in their population resulting from an infestation of mites which caused breathing difficulties, an alternative pollinator was needed. To fill the void left by the decreasing honey bees, the blueberry bee (also known as the Orchard Mason Bee) has been brought in. The Blueberry Bee is native to both the west and east coast of the US, however is scarce in this area. Nests were built to house them and they were released in the area. The Blueberry Bee is not an aggressive bee, and by the time picking season has arrived has already completed its life cycle. The result of their introduction into the blueberry farm has been successful.

Hopefully, Honey Bees will make a come back in the Northeast, and will be able to contribute to the pollination of the blueberries again. In the meantime, Bumble Bees and the Blueberry Bee will carry the load. With the eventual return of the Honey Bee--combined with the Orchard Mason Bee, and the Bumble Bee; pollination will be better than ever.

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