A new study from the Colorado Rockies shows that wild bees strategically select flowers to balance their intake of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Over eight years, researchers observed eight species of bumblebees, collecting pollen samples to analyze their nutrient content. Protein levels varied widely, from 17% to 86%, and the nutrient composition shifted through the seasons, with spring flowers being more protein-rich and late-summer blooms higher in fats and carbohydrates.
Bees adjusted their foraging as their colonies grew, reflecting changing nutritional needs. Larger bees with longer tongues preferred high-protein pollen, while smaller bees targeted pollen richer in carbohydrates and fats. This selective foraging highlights the importance of floral diversity for supporting pollinators. The study suggests that conservation and garden planning should focus on providing a variety of nutrient-rich flowers throughout the season to maintain healthy bee populations, which are vital for both ecosystems and human food systems.
