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In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker explores the precarious situation of the rusty patch bumblebee. Meeker is joined by Elaine Evans, an Extension Educator and Researcher at the University of Minnesota, and Mary Powley, a PhD student in the Native Bee Lab at the same university. Together, they discuss the unique characteristics, habitats, and life cycles of the rusty patch bumblebee. They delve into the factors causing its decline, including disease, habitat loss, and climate change, and highlight ongoing research and community science efforts to help save the species. Through engaging anecdotes and detailed explanations, the episode promotes awareness and conservation actions that individuals can take to support these essential pollinators.

https://www.bumblebeeatlas.org/ 

 https://beelab.umn.edu/rusty-patched-bumble-bee 

 https://www.fws.gov/species/rusty-patched-bumble-bee-bombus-affinis     

 https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/icad.12564     

00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast

00:26 Meet the Rusty Patch Bumblebee

01:00 The Decline of the Rusty Patch Bumblebee

02:49 Identifying the Rusty Patch Bumblebee

07:24 Habitat and Nesting Behavior

13:40 Threats and Conservation Challenges

24:24 Research and Citizen Science

31:02 Personal Stories and Field Memories

40:56 Why Care About the Rusty Patch Bumblebee?

45:58 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser