Mason Bee Revolution Book

The national media frequently highlights alarming reports regarding the collapse of honeybee colonies and the associated risks to our food supply. However, there exists another, often overlooked species that holds the promise of aiding our planet—the mason bee.

Mason Bee Revolution elucidates how gentle, industrious, solitary mason bees, along with their counterparts, the leafcutter bees, serve as even more effective pollinators than honeybees. Engaging in the maintenance of these bees can be an enjoyable and straightforward hobby for gardeners, conservationists, culinary enthusiasts, and families alike.

Why focus on these bees? Pollination by bees is essential for approximately 80 percent of agricultural crops in the United States, contributing an estimated $15 billion to crop value each year. Since 2006, nearly one-third of honeybee hives have been lost annually due to factors such as parasites, pesticides, habitat destruction, climate change, and a relatively new issue known as Colony Collapse Disorder. While researchers strive to find solutions to protect honeybees, Dave Hunter and his organization, Crown Bees, are spearheading initiatives to bolster the populations of other highly effective pollinators. Notably, a single mason bee can yield twelve pounds of cherries through pollination, a feat that would require sixty honeybees to accomplish.

Mason Bee Revolution serves as a comprehensive guide for cultivating both mason and leafcutter bees. It provides detailed instructions on how to establish, care for, and harvest your own bees, as well as insights into the types of plants and habitats that attract mason and leafcutter bees. Additionally, it offers general information on other common pollinators, along with bee-related facts, projects, and notable figures in the field.