Discovering Kentucky’s Hidden Pollinators: The Remarkable Colletes Bees of Lost River Cave
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for those comfortable with light walking on uneven terrain.
Overview
Explore the early-season resilience of native Colletes bees in Lost River Cave, Kentucky. Join expert John Zippay to uncover their surprising wintertime activity and hidden nesting sites during this unique pollinator program.
Hidden Pollinators
Cellophane Bees of the Lost River Valley
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Discover the fascinating world of Colletes bees with John Zippay in a captivating evening program. Learn how these resilient pollinators thrive in winter's chill, long before flowers bloom. Enjoy stunning visuals and gain insights into their unique survival strategies, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Lost River Cave.
Join us for a buzz-worthy evening with John Zippay as he introduces a remarkable native bee that braves the February chill while flowers are still fast asleep.
In this engaging classroom program, you’ll uncover why these unique bees defy tradition, emerging from their nests long before the first blooms appear. Through captivating photos and videos, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at their survival strategies and life in the scenic valley of Lost River Cave.
For just $5, you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the world of Colletes bees. The program also includes an optional walk to explore their nesting site and see these resilient pollinators’ habitat up close. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!
Adventure Tips
Dress Warm for Early Season
Bring layers as the outdoor portion takes place in February when temperatures can be chilly.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The optional walk to the nesting sites covers uneven ground near the cave valley.
Bring a Notebook or Camera
Capture observations during the classroom talk and walk to deepen your learning experience.
Stay Quiet Near Nesting Sites
Respect the bees and their habitat by minimizing noise and movement during the walk.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Box Turtle
- Red-headed Woodpecker
History
Lost River Cave sits atop limestone formations formed over 300 million years ago, with human activity in the valley dating back thousands of years.
Conservation
The program promotes awareness of native pollinator populations and advocates for habitat preservation in karst landscapes.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bowling Green
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Keeps you warm during chilly February outdoor portions.
winter specific
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides support and traction on forest floor and uneven paths.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Useful for photographing bees and habitat during the walk.
Notebook and Pen
Helpful for jotting down observations during the educational talk.