What many gardeners and even conservation enthusiasts may not realise is that roughly 70 per cent of Australia’s native bees are ground-nesting species. These bees, which include beloved species like the blue-banded bee (Amegilla sp.) and the teddy-bear bee (Amegilla bombiformis), spend most of their lives beneath the soil.  

Beyond these larger, more visually striking species, there is a diverse array of smaller, often overlooked, bees from genera such as Lasioglossum, Leioproctus, and Hylaeus.  

Research is being conducted at Murdoch University on the sweat bee (Lasioglossum dotatum)—a very small three-to-four millimetre bee that has a wide distribution across Australia.  

These studies show that while these smaller species may lack the vibrant colours and size of their more recognisable counterparts, they are equally vital to pollination, playing an essential role in sustaining native wildflowers and crops. Despite their inconspicuous appearances, these bees make significant contributions to the health and resilience of Australia’s ecosystems.  

While ground-nesting bees have started to garner attention in conservation research, they remain an overlooked piece of the puzzle for most gardeners— the very citizen scientists who have the potential to make a significant difference.  

Urban and suburban gardens are becoming vital refuges for native pollinators as natural habitats face threats from land clearing, agriculture, and urbanisation. However, without addressing the needs of ground-nesting bees, many of these well-intentioned efforts fall short. 

The good news is that supporting ground-nesting bees doesn’t require grand gestures or specialist knowledge. In fact, with a few simple and thoughtful adjustments, gardeners of any skill level can make their outdoor spaces more welcoming to these essential pollinators. Whether your garden is large or small, there are practical ways to create nesting habitats that could make all the difference for these soil-dwelling species.  

Perth-based wild bee ecologist, Dr Kit Prendergast, has been researching bees for many years and has demonstrated that native bees rely heavily on domestic gardens in urban areas as critical refuges, particularly as natural habitats continue to be lost due to urbanisation.  

Her research shows that, even in densely populated cities, well-planned home gardens can support native bees by providing nesting sites, floral resources, and shelter.  

By shining a spotlight on ground-nesting bees, we can inspire gardeners to go beyond flowers and bee hotels and consider the unique and often hidden needs of these vital pollinators. It’s time to dig deeper— literally and figuratively—and give ground-nesting bees the attention they deserve.  

In doing so, we’re not just saving the bees; we’re fostering the health of our ecosystems and ensuring future generations will continue to benefit from bees quiet yet crucial work.