Bee Ready for Pollinator Season

There is a spring bloom for honey bees every season and Audubon Zoo visitors may see increased activity beginning in early March and lasting throughout the summer. Audubon Zoo is seeing a higher population of bees this year due to an unseasonably warm winter.

Over 75% of our flowering plants and nearly 75% of our crops rely on pollinators—hummingbirds, bats, bees, beetles, butterflies, and flies.

The Zoo has a plan in place that addresses wild, native bee populations and the safety of visitors while promoting Zoo conservation efforts.

Proactive efforts currently underway to curb bee activity in highly-trafficked areas of the Zoo include pressure washing waste receptacles regularly, strategically planting pollinator and wild flower plants away from guest pathways and other green options.

Whenever possible, Zoo staff does not interfere with pollinators on-grounds, recognizing the benefits of the many species that transfer pollen from one plant to another so that seeds will be produced. If necessary, voluntary hives and swarms are removed with the help of our local beekeepers and put safety in apiaries.

Please reach out to a local beekeeper association if you encounter an unwanted hive or swarm. The bees and the flowers will thank you!