Conserving Wild Bees and Other Pollinators of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is home to over 400 species of native wild bees and about 50 species of hummingbirds. But habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change threaten the health and survival of pollinators around the world. How can we better protect these important species?
More than three-quarters of the world’s crops depend on pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These animals provide essential ecosystem services and play a crucial role in the production of many fruits and vegetables. But, a changing climate, pesticide use, and habitat loss or degradation threaten pollinator communities, although the full impact of these threats is not well understood. For example, warming temperatures could force pollinator species to shift their ranges to higher elevations, which could impact agricultural production, or it could be that a changing climate will cause these species to disappear altogether.
One way to mitigate the effects of climate change is by planting “agroforests”—or forests that grow in pastures around or among crops—that could benefit pollinator communities. As part of this expedition, you will meet local farmers and learn about their farms and farming techniques. Additionally, you will help set up experimental biodiversity islands within pasture areas, which could not only help pollinator communities but could also demonstrate to farmers how planting additional plant species can simultaneously protect biodiversity and ecosystem function as well as provide livelihoods for low-income families in the region.
In the rugged tropical forests of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or the lower elevation site of Guacima, home to one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems, the tropical dry forest, you will join the research team to investigate how threats to bees and butterflies will affect the critical pollination services they provide.
For more information or to book contact our office (03) 9016 7590 or email
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jodie Lang | "Science, Climate Change and Community!"The Earthwatch Conserving Wild Bees and Other Pollinators of Costa Rica was an amazing experience. Our group of teachers assisted a scientist in collecting bees in local farms and planting bushes that have been shown to attract pollinators to the area. In addition, we met many local farmers with a vested interest in this research and working to create sustainable living conditions for their families and communities. We were fortunate to stay in accommodations in the cloud forest and were treated to fresh, delicious local meals. Every aspect of the trip, from planning to the week in the field to the post-trip reporting, was organized and efficient. It was great to work with a diverse group of people with a common mission. Thanks, Earthwatch! |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ranee Duncan | January "The wonders of Costa Rica's biodiversity, with a focus on learning more about the many bees"This project gives the opportunity to witness Costa Rica's amazing diversity and conservation practices, working with and meeting inspiring scientists, guides, and farmers. Traveling to various research sites at different elevations and hearing about local farms as well as the bees that pollinate left me wanting to learn more! Meeting local farmers and sampling their products, and visiting very different locations in the area (research sites, farms, and the awe-inspiring Monteverde preserve) added to the experience. |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2024 Earthwatch Participant | "Rainforest Restoration: A Project in Scientific Progression"This project is a great example of using different phases of research to develop and test theories for the restoration of the Costa Rican rainforests. Using bees as an indicator of ecosystem health, one can see the scientific progression from the determination of key plant species to collecting baseline data on cleared/disrupted plots to planting those plots with the theorized plants that will stimulate the restoration of the rainforest and in the future the results of those plantings. The additional connection the scientist has made with the local community and farmers, to show the value of restoring the rainforest will help insure continued progress in rainforest restoration. My involvement was mainly collecting baseline bee data on the plots prior to planting. Some of the plots are now in the planting phase of the research. |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2023 Earthwatch Participant | "Beautiful People and Places"Participating in this expedition was a wonderful way to experience the richness of Costa Rica and to interact with Costa Ricans. I gained a new appreciation for both the scientific method and the importance of protecting bee diversity as a way to ensure environmental sustainability. Valerie has long-term relationships with the Costa Ricans who help with the expedition which enriches the experience. |
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Activity Level: Moderate
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Location: San Luis de Monteverde, Costa Rica
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Lead Scientist: