Historic Cemetery Found Hosting Massive Colony of Rare Mining Bees

Researchers from Cornell University have identified a massive colony of approximately 5.5 million *Andrena regularis* mining bees residing within the grounds of the East Lawn Cemetery in Ithaca, New York. This discovery, detailed in the journal *Apidologie*, represents one of the largest aggregations of subterranean bees ever documented. The colony has likely occupied the site since the early 20th century, thriving in an environment that has remained largely undisturbed since the cemetery's establishment in 1878.

Unlike the more familiar honey bee, *Andrena regularis* is a solitary species that nests in underground tunnels. The study utilized specialized trapping methods to estimate the population density, revealing that the cemetery acts as a critical ecological hub. The bees' life cycle is perfectly synchronized with the local apple orchards, providing essential pollination services to the region. Furthermore, the research provided rare insights into the species' biology, including their early spring emergence patterns and complex interactions with parasitic bee species.

This finding underscores the vital role that unconventional urban spaces, such as cemeteries, play in preserving biodiversity. Because these sites are typically free from the pesticides and intensive land development found in agricultural or residential zones, they serve as unintentional sanctuaries for ground-nesting insects. As 75 percent of wild bee species are solitary and subterranean, protecting these stable habitats is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

In response to the discovery, the research team has launched a global citizen science initiative to identify and catalog similar underground bee aggregations. By mapping these hidden populations, scientists hope to prevent the accidental destruction of these habitats through construction or urban expansion. This study serves as a powerful reminder that historical preservation can extend beyond human monuments to include the protection of the natural world.