We had always had a lot of bumblebees and a variety of native bees and pollinating flies in our yard but I have noticed much fewer this spring. Like hardly any. Last year there were several domestic hives in the area so my garden had tons of honey bees visiting which was unusual. We have also had a dry, mild winter and exceptional early spring. No six inch slugs to beat off.
Just curious, and I know there are a lot of variables, but do honey bees greatly impact native pollinators. What are the pros and cons of having honey bees in the neighborhood? There are tons of flowering fruit trees and bushes but fewer bumble bees and no honeybees (my guess is they moved living in an urban area, backyard hobbyists come and go) that are working so I am somewhat concerned. Any ideas on the subject or resources?
