Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Sam Droege

Sam is a Wildlife Biologist at the Eastern Ecological Science Center in Laurel, MD.

Sam has coordinated the North American Breeding Bird Survey Program, developed the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program, the BioBlitz, Cricket Crawl, and FrogwatchUSA programs and worked on the design and evaluation of monitoring programs.  Currently he is developing an inventory and monitoring program for native bees, online identification guides for North American bees at discoverlife.org, and reviving the North American Bird Phenology Program.

Education and Certifications

  • M.S. from State University of New York – Syracuse

  • B.S. from University of Maryland

Science and Products

a close-up of a bumble bee face, with proboscis in the yellow center of a purple flower

Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Pollinators, including bees, flies, butterflies, bats, birds, and other animals, are critically important to U.S. ecosystems and agriculture. Recent reports of declines of pollinator species have led to widespread actions to conserve pollinator habitat and recover imperiled species, but resource managers need accurate data and science to support management actions. USGS pollinator research helps...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Fort Collins Science Center
Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Pollinators, including bees, flies, butterflies, bats, birds, and other animals, are critically important to U.S. ecosystems and agriculture. Recent reports of declines of pollinator species have led to widespread actions to conserve pollinator habitat and recover imperiled species, but resource managers need accurate data and science to support management actions. USGS pollinator research helps...
Learn More
Endangered Rusty Patched Bumblebee (Bumbus affinis)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Bee Lab supports research on native bees. As part of that program we and our co-located USFWS partners develop identification tools and keys for native bee species, take public access hi resolution photographs of bees, work with partners from all the states of the unions, design and test bee counting techniques and document bee/plant associations as well as double checking researchers...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Bee Lab supports research on native bees. As part of that program we and our co-located USFWS partners develop identification tools and keys for native bee species, take public access hi resolution photographs of bees, work with partners from all the states of the unions, design and test bee counting techniques and document bee/plant associations as well as double checking researchers...
Learn More
Image Collage of Landsat, pollinator, and volcanologist

Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Project Overview Many insect pollinator species in the southeastern US and the US Caribbean, including bees and butterflies, face increasing threats from climate change, but few have been assessed for their vulnerability to these threats. This leaves wildlife managers without crucial information for conservation planning. Researchers supported by this Southeast CASC project will work...
By
Climate Adaptation Science Centers
Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Project Overview Many insect pollinator species in the southeastern US and the US Caribbean, including bees and butterflies, face increasing threats from climate change, but few have been assessed for their vulnerability to these threats. This leaves wildlife managers without crucial information for conservation planning. Researchers supported by this Southeast CASC project will work with partners
Learn More
Bumble bee visiting thistle

Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Declines of pollinators have engendered worldwide concern, but trends in the faunas of most insect pollinators, including bees, remain uncertain. We are studying the bee fauna of southern Rhode Island to provide baseline information about the current fauna, and information about bee-flower interactions.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Declines of pollinators have engendered worldwide concern, but trends in the faunas of most insect pollinators, including bees, remain uncertain. We are studying the bee fauna of southern Rhode Island to provide baseline information about the current fauna, and information about bee-flower interactions.
Learn More
svastra obliqua, female

Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Bees are tiny, one bush or one clump of perennials is often all it takes to foster native bees in your yard. Within a mile of your yard (urban or rural) there are at least over 100 species of bees looking for the right plants. Attracting and tending these native bees on your property is all about planting the right flowers and flowering bushes.
Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Bees are tiny, one bush or one clump of perennials is often all it takes to foster native bees in your yard. Within a mile of your yard (urban or rural) there are at least over 100 species of bees looking for the right plants. Attracting and tending these native bees on your property is all about planting the right flowers and flowering bushes.
Learn More
Anthophora villosula

Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico) Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Surveys by the USGS Native Bee Laboratory have uncovered several new alien bee species in the United States. The data we and our collaborators are collecting tracks the spread of these species, at least in a coarse way. We hope to expand surveys in collaboration with our federal and state land management partners as we detect more invading species. Information on distributions and status of
Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Surveys by the USGS Native Bee Laboratory have uncovered several new alien bee species in the United States. The data we and our collaborators are collecting tracks the spread of these species, at least in a coarse way. We hope to expand surveys in collaboration with our federal and state land management partners as we detect more invading species. Information on distributions and status of
Learn More
Halictus ligatus

DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

The Challenge: Traditionally, bee identification has relied on taxonomic methods centered on descriptions of morphological differences between species. However, for many species, separate keys are required for identifying adult males and females and immature life stages. These keys are commonly unavailable. The lack of distinguishing morphological characters useful for separating closely related...
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

The Challenge: Traditionally, bee identification has relied on taxonomic methods centered on descriptions of morphological differences between species. However, for many species, separate keys are required for identifying adult males and females and immature life stages. These keys are commonly unavailable. The lack of distinguishing morphological characters useful for separating closely related...
Learn More
USGS

North American Bird Phenology Program

The Challenge: The North American Bird Phenology Program (BPP) houses a data set of 6 million historical observations of over 800 bird species, documenting occurrences and migration times from the 1880s through the 1970s -- the longest and most comprehensive legacy data set on bird migration in existence. In an effort to rescue this invaluable data set, the BPP has scanned and are in the process...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center
North American Bird Phenology Program

North American Bird Phenology Program

The Challenge: The North American Bird Phenology Program (BPP) houses a data set of 6 million historical observations of over 800 bird species, documenting occurrences and migration times from the 1880s through the 1970s -- the longest and most comprehensive legacy data set on bird migration in existence. In an effort to rescue this invaluable data set, the BPP has scanned and are in the process...
Learn More

Bee Species Occurrence Data for Maryland and the District of Columbia Bee Species Occurrence Data for Maryland and the District of Columbia

The data are a curated set of 200k records of bees, both native and introduced, that were collected from 2002 – Present throughout the state of Maryland and the District of Columbia. Collection methods, habitats, and duration of studies ranged depending on project.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower. Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.
USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower. Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

The USGS Bee Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

The USGS Bee Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.
Two Hoop House structures stand assembled
Two Hoop House structures stand assembled
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

With the willing help, and creative problem solving skills of roughly 20 volunteers throughout the day,  these two structures emerged. Bolts were tightened down, people quickly figured out what needed to happen and by the end of the day two Hoop House structures were up and almost ready for the clear sheeting that will cover them.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

With the willing help, and creative problem solving skills of roughly 20 volunteers throughout the day,  these two structures emerged. Bolts were tightened down, people quickly figured out what needed to happen and by the end of the day two Hoop House structures were up and almost ready for the clear sheeting that will cover them.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.
Thanks Chuck!
Thanks Chuck!
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.

Thanks Chuck!

Thanks Chuck!

Chuck preps the ground for EESC Native Bee Lab's Volunteer Hoop House Raising at Patuxent in mid February. He made sure we set up on a stable well drained spot

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.

Thanks Chuck!

Thanks Chuck!

Chuck preps the ground for EESC Native Bee Lab's Volunteer Hoop House Raising at Patuxent in mid February. He made sure we set up on a stable well drained spot

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Plants in pots outside
Native pollinator plants in pots
Native pollinator plants in pots
Plants in pots outside

Native pollinator plants in pots

Native pollinator plants in pots

The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab piloted a process in 2021 to propagate woody plants from cuttings. Once large enough, these plants will be used in the garden at Patuxent Research Refuge or distributed to the public for planting on their own properties. 

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Plants in pots outside

Native pollinator plants in pots

Native pollinator plants in pots

The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab piloted a process in 2021 to propagate woody plants from cuttings. Once large enough, these plants will be used in the garden at Patuxent Research Refuge or distributed to the public for planting on their own properties. 

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez

USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

the rare blue-eyed version of one of the periodical cicadas

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez

USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

the rare blue-eyed version of one of the periodical cicadas

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs
Cicada shell
Cicada shell
Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs

Cicada shell

Cicada shell

USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.Roooooarrrrrr!, Danger, creature from the black lagoon. Or...not. Here we have a close up look at the many interesting features that are left behind when a cicada emerges. This one was in my backyard and left his/her full body suit behind on the shed.

Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs

Cicada shell

Cicada shell

USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.Roooooarrrrrr!, Danger, creature from the black lagoon. Or...not. Here we have a close up look at the many interesting features that are left behind when a cicada emerges. This one was in my backyard and left his/her full body suit behind on the shed.

Filter Total Items: 72

U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

This “U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward” (“Pollinator Science Strategy”) describes the science vision of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to support management, conservation, and policy decisions on animal pollinators and their habitats. As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS has a primary role in providing...
Authors
Clint Otto, Tabitha A. Graves, Desi Robertson-Thompson, Ian Pearse, Wayne Thogmartin, Caroline Murphy, Elisabeth Webb, Sam Droege, Melanie Steinkamp, Ralph Grundel
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Cooperative Research Units, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Fort Collins Science Center, Great Lakes Science Center, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, National Geospatial Technical Operations Center

The bee lab The bee lab

Introduction The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Bee Lab is a collaborative interagency joint venture and international leader for bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) identification, survey design, quantification of bee and plant interrelations, and development and maintenance of occurrence databases. Each of these objectives supports native bee conservation by providing critical data and tools for...
Authors
Sam Droege, Elise Irwin, Jenn Malpass, Jonathan Mawdsley
By
Cooperative Research Units, Eastern Ecological Science Center

National protocol framework for the inventory and monitoring of bees National protocol framework for the inventory and monitoring of bees

This national protocol framework is a standardized tool for the inventory and monitoring of the approximately 4,200 species of native and non-native bee species that may be found within the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). However, this protocol framework may also be used by other organizations and individuals to monitor...
Authors
Sam Droege, Joseph Engler, Elizabeth Sellers, Lee O’Brien
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Exotic plant infestation is associated with decreased modularity and increased numbers of connectors in mixed-grass prairie pollination networks Exotic plant infestation is associated with decreased modularity and increased numbers of connectors in mixed-grass prairie pollination networks

The majority of pollinating insects are generalists whose lifetimes overlap flowering periods of many potentially suitable plant species. Such generality is instrumental in allowing exotic plant species to invade pollination networks. The particulars of how existing networks change in response to an invasive plant over the course of its phenology are not well characterized, but may shed...
Authors
Diane Larson, Paul Rabie, Sam Droege, Jennifer Larson, Milton Haar
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Bees: An up-close look at pollinators around the world Bees: An up-close look at pollinators around the world

While we eat, work, and sleep, bees are busy around the world. More than 20,000 species are in constant motion! They pollinate plants of all types and keep our natural world intact. In Bees, you'll find a new way to appreciate these tiny wonders. Sam Droege and Laurence Packer present more than 100 of the most eye-catching bees from around the world as you've never seen them: up-close...
Authors
Sam Droege, Laurence Packer
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Using a network modularity analysis to inform management of a rare endemic plant in the northern Great Plains, USA Using a network modularity analysis to inform management of a rare endemic plant in the northern Great Plains, USA

1. Analyses of flower-visitor interaction networks allow application of community-level information to conservation problems, but management recommendations that ensue from such analyses are not well characterized. Results of modularity analyses, which detect groups of species (modules) that interact more with each other than with species outside their module, may be particularly...
Authors
Diane Larson, Sam Droege, Paul Rabie, Jennifer Larson, Jelle Devalez, Milton Haar, Margaret McDermott-Kubeczko
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Detecting insect pollinator declines on regional and global scales Detecting insect pollinator declines on regional and global scales

Recently there has been considerable concern about declines in bee communities in agricultural and natural habitats. The value of pollination to agriculture, provided primarily by bees, is >$200 billion/year worldwide, and in natural ecosystems it is thought to be even greater. However, no monitoring program exists to accurately detect declines in abundance of insect pollinators; thus...
Authors
Gretchen Lubuhn, Sam Droege, Edward F. Connor, Barbara Gemmill-Herren, Simon Potts, Robert Minckley, Terry Griswold, Robert Jean, Emanuel Kula, David Roubik, Jim Cane, Karen Wright, Gordon Frankie, Frank Parker
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Spatial patterns of bee captures in North American bowl trapping surveys Spatial patterns of bee captures in North American bowl trapping surveys

1. Bowl and pan traps are now commonly used to capture bees (Hymenoptera: Apiformes) for research and surveys. 2. Studies of how arrangement and spacing of bowl traps affect captures of bees are needed to increase the efficiency of this capture technique. 3. We present results from seven studies of bowl traps placed in trapping webs, grids, and transects in four North American ecoregions...
Authors
Sam Droege, Vincent Tepedino, Gretchen Lebuhn, William Link, Robert Minckley, Qian Chen, Casey Conrad
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

New synonymies in the bee genus Nomada from North America (Hymenoptera: Apidae) New synonymies in the bee genus Nomada from North America (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

We provide diagnostic morphological characters to help distinguish males and females of the following species of Nomada: N. augustiana Mitchell, N. bethunei Cockerell, N. fervida Smith, N. fragariae Mitchell, N. lehighensis Cockerell, N. texana Cresson, and N. tiftonensis Cockerell. Based on morphological and DNA barcoding evidence we newly synonymize the following species: N...
Authors
Sam Droege, M.G. Rightmyer, C.S. Sheffield, S.G. Brady
By
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The lost micro-deserts of the Patuxent River using landscape history, insect and plant specimens, and field work to detect and define a unique community The lost micro-deserts of the Patuxent River using landscape history, insect and plant specimens, and field work to detect and define a unique community

Historical and recent records of both plants and insects are synthesized for uplands along the eastern edge of Maryland?s Patuxent River from the edge of the Piedmont south to Jug Bay. This strip is characterized by deep sandy soils found in the Evesboro and Galestown sandy loams soil series. Within this narrow strip there exists a unique flora and fauna adapted to open dry sandy soils...
Authors
Sam Droege, C.A. Davis, W.E. Steiner, J. Mawdsley
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Long-term decline and short-term crash of the once abundant Rusty Blackbird Long-term decline and short-term crash of the once abundant Rusty Blackbird

The Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), a formerly common breeding species of boreal wetlands, has exhibited the most marked decline of any North American landbird. North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) trends in abundance are estimated to be -12.5% / yr over the last 40 years, which is tantamount to a >95% cumulative decline. Trends in abundance calculated from Christmas Bird...
Authors
R. Greenberg, P. Blancher, D. Niven, Sam Droege
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Long-term trends in breeding birds in an old-growth Adirondack forest and the surrounding region Long-term trends in breeding birds in an old-growth Adirondack forest and the surrounding region

Breeding bird populations were sampled between 1954 and 1963, and 1990 and 2000 in an old-growth forest, the Natural Area of Huntington Wildlife Forest (HWF), in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Trends were compared with data from regional North American Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) and from a forest plot at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, New Hampshire. Trends for 22 species in...
Authors
S.A. McNulty, Sam Droege, R.D. Masters
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab (BIML) Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab (BIML)

Species occurrence records for native and non-native bees, wasps and other insects collected using mainly pan, malaise, and vane trapping; and insect netting methods in Canada, Mexico, the non-contiguous United States, U.S. Territories (specifically U.S. Virgin Islands), U.S. Minor Outlying Islands and other global locations.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

This report describes the science vision of the USGS from 2025 to 2035 to support management, conservation, and decisions on animal pollinators and...

Read Article
Pollinator Research Highlights at Eastern Ecological Science Center

Pollinator Research Highlights at Eastern Ecological Science Center

Globally, about one-third of domesticated crop production and about 70% of all plant species require pollination services by bees, birds, butterflies...

Read Article
Patuxent Scientist interviewed by Daily Emerald

Patuxent Scientist interviewed by Daily Emerald

A hive of knowledge
Read Article
How the Bees You Know are Killing the Bees You Don’t

How the Bees You Know are Killing the Bees You Don’t

Patuxent Scientist Sam Droege interviewed for "Inside Science" about how commercially managed bumblebees and honey bees may be contributing to wild...

Read Article
Pollinators Get a National Strategy to Restore Their Health

Pollinators Get a National Strategy to Restore Their Health

Small bees that don’t bother or sting us can remain unstudied despite their abundance. 

Read Article

Science and Products

a close-up of a bumble bee face, with proboscis in the yellow center of a purple flower

Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Pollinators, including bees, flies, butterflies, bats, birds, and other animals, are critically important to U.S. ecosystems and agriculture. Recent reports of declines of pollinator species have led to widespread actions to conserve pollinator habitat and recover imperiled species, but resource managers need accurate data and science to support management actions. USGS pollinator research helps...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Fort Collins Science Center
Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Science for effective pollinator conservation and improved food security

Pollinators, including bees, flies, butterflies, bats, birds, and other animals, are critically important to U.S. ecosystems and agriculture. Recent reports of declines of pollinator species have led to widespread actions to conserve pollinator habitat and recover imperiled species, but resource managers need accurate data and science to support management actions. USGS pollinator research helps...
Learn More
Endangered Rusty Patched Bumblebee (Bumbus affinis)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Bee Lab supports research on native bees. As part of that program we and our co-located USFWS partners develop identification tools and keys for native bee species, take public access hi resolution photographs of bees, work with partners from all the states of the unions, design and test bee counting techniques and document bee/plant associations as well as double checking researchers...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Bee Lab supports research on native bees. As part of that program we and our co-located USFWS partners develop identification tools and keys for native bee species, take public access hi resolution photographs of bees, work with partners from all the states of the unions, design and test bee counting techniques and document bee/plant associations as well as double checking researchers...
Learn More
Image Collage of Landsat, pollinator, and volcanologist

Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Project Overview Many insect pollinator species in the southeastern US and the US Caribbean, including bees and butterflies, face increasing threats from climate change, but few have been assessed for their vulnerability to these threats. This leaves wildlife managers without crucial information for conservation planning. Researchers supported by this Southeast CASC project will work...
By
Climate Adaptation Science Centers
Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Evaluating Insect Pollinator Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Southeast and US Caribbean

Project Overview Many insect pollinator species in the southeastern US and the US Caribbean, including bees and butterflies, face increasing threats from climate change, but few have been assessed for their vulnerability to these threats. This leaves wildlife managers without crucial information for conservation planning. Researchers supported by this Southeast CASC project will work with partners
Learn More
Bumble bee visiting thistle

Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Declines of pollinators have engendered worldwide concern, but trends in the faunas of most insect pollinators, including bees, remain uncertain. We are studying the bee fauna of southern Rhode Island to provide baseline information about the current fauna, and information about bee-flower interactions.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Bees of the Northeastern U.S.

Declines of pollinators have engendered worldwide concern, but trends in the faunas of most insect pollinators, including bees, remain uncertain. We are studying the bee fauna of southern Rhode Island to provide baseline information about the current fauna, and information about bee-flower interactions.
Learn More
svastra obliqua, female

Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Bees are tiny, one bush or one clump of perennials is often all it takes to foster native bees in your yard. Within a mile of your yard (urban or rural) there are at least over 100 species of bees looking for the right plants. Attracting and tending these native bees on your property is all about planting the right flowers and flowering bushes.
Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Quick Background on the Mid Atlantic region's native bees

Bees are tiny, one bush or one clump of perennials is often all it takes to foster native bees in your yard. Within a mile of your yard (urban or rural) there are at least over 100 species of bees looking for the right plants. Attracting and tending these native bees on your property is all about planting the right flowers and flowering bushes.
Learn More
Anthophora villosula

Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico) Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Surveys by the USGS Native Bee Laboratory have uncovered several new alien bee species in the United States. The data we and our collaborators are collecting tracks the spread of these species, at least in a coarse way. We hope to expand surveys in collaboration with our federal and state land management partners as we detect more invading species. Information on distributions and status of
Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Introduced and Alien Bee Species of North America (North of Mexico)

Surveys by the USGS Native Bee Laboratory have uncovered several new alien bee species in the United States. The data we and our collaborators are collecting tracks the spread of these species, at least in a coarse way. We hope to expand surveys in collaboration with our federal and state land management partners as we detect more invading species. Information on distributions and status of
Learn More
Halictus ligatus

DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

The Challenge: Traditionally, bee identification has relied on taxonomic methods centered on descriptions of morphological differences between species. However, for many species, separate keys are required for identifying adult males and females and immature life stages. These keys are commonly unavailable. The lack of distinguishing morphological characters useful for separating closely related...
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

DNA Barcoding for Identifying Native Bee Species

The Challenge: Traditionally, bee identification has relied on taxonomic methods centered on descriptions of morphological differences between species. However, for many species, separate keys are required for identifying adult males and females and immature life stages. These keys are commonly unavailable. The lack of distinguishing morphological characters useful for separating closely related...
Learn More
USGS

North American Bird Phenology Program

The Challenge: The North American Bird Phenology Program (BPP) houses a data set of 6 million historical observations of over 800 bird species, documenting occurrences and migration times from the 1880s through the 1970s -- the longest and most comprehensive legacy data set on bird migration in existence. In an effort to rescue this invaluable data set, the BPP has scanned and are in the process...
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center
North American Bird Phenology Program

North American Bird Phenology Program

The Challenge: The North American Bird Phenology Program (BPP) houses a data set of 6 million historical observations of over 800 bird species, documenting occurrences and migration times from the 1880s through the 1970s -- the longest and most comprehensive legacy data set on bird migration in existence. In an effort to rescue this invaluable data set, the BPP has scanned and are in the process...
Learn More

Bee Species Occurrence Data for Maryland and the District of Columbia Bee Species Occurrence Data for Maryland and the District of Columbia

The data are a curated set of 200k records of bees, both native and introduced, that were collected from 2002 – Present throughout the state of Maryland and the District of Columbia. Collection methods, habitats, and duration of studies ranged depending on project.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower. Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.
USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab at Eastern Ecological Science Center

The USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower. Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

The USGS Bee Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Text reads: Native Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. Images of bee and flower.

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center (AD)

The USGS Bee Lab designs and develops large and small scale surveys for native bees. As part of this work we also develop identification tools and keys for native bee species. One aspect of creating those tools is creating accurate and detailed pictures of native bees and the plants and insects they interact with.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.
Two Hoop House structures stand assembled
Two Hoop House structures stand assembled
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

With the willing help, and creative problem solving skills of roughly 20 volunteers throughout the day,  these two structures emerged. Bolts were tightened down, people quickly figured out what needed to happen and by the end of the day two Hoop House structures were up and almost ready for the clear sheeting that will cover them.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Two half round structures of metal piping stand on a gravel pad in a winter field. Half round metal hoops lay on the ground.

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

Two Hoop House structures stand assembled

With the willing help, and creative problem solving skills of roughly 20 volunteers throughout the day,  these two structures emerged. Bolts were tightened down, people quickly figured out what needed to happen and by the end of the day two Hoop House structures were up and almost ready for the clear sheeting that will cover them.

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.
Thanks Chuck!
Thanks Chuck!
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.

Thanks Chuck!

Thanks Chuck!

Chuck preps the ground for EESC Native Bee Lab's Volunteer Hoop House Raising at Patuxent in mid February. He made sure we set up on a stable well drained spot

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Chuck Wicks waves from inside a small red back-hoe on a cold February day.

Thanks Chuck!

Thanks Chuck!

Chuck preps the ground for EESC Native Bee Lab's Volunteer Hoop House Raising at Patuxent in mid February. He made sure we set up on a stable well drained spot

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Plants in pots outside
Native pollinator plants in pots
Native pollinator plants in pots
Plants in pots outside

Native pollinator plants in pots

Native pollinator plants in pots

The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab piloted a process in 2021 to propagate woody plants from cuttings. Once large enough, these plants will be used in the garden at Patuxent Research Refuge or distributed to the public for planting on their own properties. 

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Plants in pots outside

Native pollinator plants in pots

Native pollinator plants in pots

The Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab piloted a process in 2021 to propagate woody plants from cuttings. Once large enough, these plants will be used in the garden at Patuxent Research Refuge or distributed to the public for planting on their own properties. 

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez

USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

the rare blue-eyed version of one of the periodical cicadas

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

Blue-eyed Cicada - Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

June 2021 "People" category winner Erick Hernandez

USGS Natiave Bee Lab, Magicicada cassinii, super rare Blue eyed variant

the rare blue-eyed version of one of the periodical cicadas

By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Eastern Ecological Science Center
Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs
Cicada shell
Cicada shell
Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs

Cicada shell

Cicada shell

USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.Roooooarrrrrr!, Danger, creature from the black lagoon. Or...not. Here we have a close up look at the many interesting features that are left behind when a cicada emerges. This one was in my backyard and left his/her full body suit behind on the shed.

Close-up view of a brown, empty shell that looks exactly like a live cicada, complete with antennae and individual hairs

Cicada shell

Cicada shell

USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab.Roooooarrrrrr!, Danger, creature from the black lagoon. Or...not. Here we have a close up look at the many interesting features that are left behind when a cicada emerges. This one was in my backyard and left his/her full body suit behind on the shed.

Filter Total Items: 72

U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

This “U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward” (“Pollinator Science Strategy”) describes the science vision of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to support management, conservation, and policy decisions on animal pollinators and their habitats. As the science arm of the Department of the Interior, the USGS has a primary role in providing...
Authors
Clint Otto, Tabitha A. Graves, Desi Robertson-Thompson, Ian Pearse, Wayne Thogmartin, Caroline Murphy, Elisabeth Webb, Sam Droege, Melanie Steinkamp, Ralph Grundel
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Cooperative Research Units, Species Management Research Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Fort Collins Science Center, Great Lakes Science Center, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, National Geospatial Technical Operations Center

The bee lab The bee lab

Introduction The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Bee Lab is a collaborative interagency joint venture and international leader for bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) identification, survey design, quantification of bee and plant interrelations, and development and maintenance of occurrence databases. Each of these objectives supports native bee conservation by providing critical data and tools for...
Authors
Sam Droege, Elise Irwin, Jenn Malpass, Jonathan Mawdsley
By
Cooperative Research Units, Eastern Ecological Science Center

National protocol framework for the inventory and monitoring of bees National protocol framework for the inventory and monitoring of bees

This national protocol framework is a standardized tool for the inventory and monitoring of the approximately 4,200 species of native and non-native bee species that may be found within the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). However, this protocol framework may also be used by other organizations and individuals to monitor...
Authors
Sam Droege, Joseph Engler, Elizabeth Sellers, Lee O’Brien
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Science Synthesis, Analysis and Research Program, Science Analytics and Synthesis (SAS) Program, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Exotic plant infestation is associated with decreased modularity and increased numbers of connectors in mixed-grass prairie pollination networks Exotic plant infestation is associated with decreased modularity and increased numbers of connectors in mixed-grass prairie pollination networks

The majority of pollinating insects are generalists whose lifetimes overlap flowering periods of many potentially suitable plant species. Such generality is instrumental in allowing exotic plant species to invade pollination networks. The particulars of how existing networks change in response to an invasive plant over the course of its phenology are not well characterized, but may shed...
Authors
Diane Larson, Paul Rabie, Sam Droege, Jennifer Larson, Milton Haar
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Bees: An up-close look at pollinators around the world Bees: An up-close look at pollinators around the world

While we eat, work, and sleep, bees are busy around the world. More than 20,000 species are in constant motion! They pollinate plants of all types and keep our natural world intact. In Bees, you'll find a new way to appreciate these tiny wonders. Sam Droege and Laurence Packer present more than 100 of the most eye-catching bees from around the world as you've never seen them: up-close...
Authors
Sam Droege, Laurence Packer
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Using a network modularity analysis to inform management of a rare endemic plant in the northern Great Plains, USA Using a network modularity analysis to inform management of a rare endemic plant in the northern Great Plains, USA

1. Analyses of flower-visitor interaction networks allow application of community-level information to conservation problems, but management recommendations that ensue from such analyses are not well characterized. Results of modularity analyses, which detect groups of species (modules) that interact more with each other than with species outside their module, may be particularly...
Authors
Diane Larson, Sam Droege, Paul Rabie, Jennifer Larson, Jelle Devalez, Milton Haar, Margaret McDermott-Kubeczko
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Detecting insect pollinator declines on regional and global scales Detecting insect pollinator declines on regional and global scales

Recently there has been considerable concern about declines in bee communities in agricultural and natural habitats. The value of pollination to agriculture, provided primarily by bees, is >$200 billion/year worldwide, and in natural ecosystems it is thought to be even greater. However, no monitoring program exists to accurately detect declines in abundance of insect pollinators; thus...
Authors
Gretchen Lubuhn, Sam Droege, Edward F. Connor, Barbara Gemmill-Herren, Simon Potts, Robert Minckley, Terry Griswold, Robert Jean, Emanuel Kula, David Roubik, Jim Cane, Karen Wright, Gordon Frankie, Frank Parker
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

Spatial patterns of bee captures in North American bowl trapping surveys Spatial patterns of bee captures in North American bowl trapping surveys

1. Bowl and pan traps are now commonly used to capture bees (Hymenoptera: Apiformes) for research and surveys. 2. Studies of how arrangement and spacing of bowl traps affect captures of bees are needed to increase the efficiency of this capture technique. 3. We present results from seven studies of bowl traps placed in trapping webs, grids, and transects in four North American ecoregions...
Authors
Sam Droege, Vincent Tepedino, Gretchen Lebuhn, William Link, Robert Minckley, Qian Chen, Casey Conrad
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center, USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

New synonymies in the bee genus Nomada from North America (Hymenoptera: Apidae) New synonymies in the bee genus Nomada from North America (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

We provide diagnostic morphological characters to help distinguish males and females of the following species of Nomada: N. augustiana Mitchell, N. bethunei Cockerell, N. fervida Smith, N. fragariae Mitchell, N. lehighensis Cockerell, N. texana Cresson, and N. tiftonensis Cockerell. Based on morphological and DNA barcoding evidence we newly synonymize the following species: N...
Authors
Sam Droege, M.G. Rightmyer, C.S. Sheffield, S.G. Brady
By
USGS Bee Lab at the Eastern Ecological Science Center

The lost micro-deserts of the Patuxent River using landscape history, insect and plant specimens, and field work to detect and define a unique community The lost micro-deserts of the Patuxent River using landscape history, insect and plant specimens, and field work to detect and define a unique community

Historical and recent records of both plants and insects are synthesized for uplands along the eastern edge of Maryland?s Patuxent River from the edge of the Piedmont south to Jug Bay. This strip is characterized by deep sandy soils found in the Evesboro and Galestown sandy loams soil series. Within this narrow strip there exists a unique flora and fauna adapted to open dry sandy soils...
Authors
Sam Droege, C.A. Davis, W.E. Steiner, J. Mawdsley
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Long-term decline and short-term crash of the once abundant Rusty Blackbird Long-term decline and short-term crash of the once abundant Rusty Blackbird

The Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), a formerly common breeding species of boreal wetlands, has exhibited the most marked decline of any North American landbird. North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) trends in abundance are estimated to be -12.5% / yr over the last 40 years, which is tantamount to a >95% cumulative decline. Trends in abundance calculated from Christmas Bird...
Authors
R. Greenberg, P. Blancher, D. Niven, Sam Droege
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Long-term trends in breeding birds in an old-growth Adirondack forest and the surrounding region Long-term trends in breeding birds in an old-growth Adirondack forest and the surrounding region

Breeding bird populations were sampled between 1954 and 1963, and 1990 and 2000 in an old-growth forest, the Natural Area of Huntington Wildlife Forest (HWF), in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Trends were compared with data from regional North American Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) and from a forest plot at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, New Hampshire. Trends for 22 species in...
Authors
S.A. McNulty, Sam Droege, R.D. Masters
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Eastern Ecological Science Center

Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab (BIML) Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab (BIML)

Species occurrence records for native and non-native bees, wasps and other insects collected using mainly pan, malaise, and vane trapping; and insect netting methods in Canada, Mexico, the non-contiguous United States, U.S. Territories (specifically U.S. Virgin Islands), U.S. Minor Outlying Islands and other global locations.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

U.S. Geological Survey Pollinator Science Strategy, 2025–35—A Review and Look Forward

This report describes the science vision of the USGS from 2025 to 2035 to support management, conservation, and decisions on animal pollinators and...

Read Article
Pollinator Research Highlights at Eastern Ecological Science Center

Pollinator Research Highlights at Eastern Ecological Science Center

Globally, about one-third of domesticated crop production and about 70% of all plant species require pollination services by bees, birds, butterflies...

Read Article
Patuxent Scientist interviewed by Daily Emerald

Patuxent Scientist interviewed by Daily Emerald

A hive of knowledge
Read Article
How the Bees You Know are Killing the Bees You Don’t

How the Bees You Know are Killing the Bees You Don’t

Patuxent Scientist Sam Droege interviewed for "Inside Science" about how commercially managed bumblebees and honey bees may be contributing to wild...

Read Article
Pollinators Get a National Strategy to Restore Their Health

Pollinators Get a National Strategy to Restore Their Health

Small bees that don’t bother or sting us can remain unstudied despite their abundance. 

Read Article
Was this page helpful?