2025 Gardening in the Panhandle LIVE! Great Southeast Pollinator Census – Bee a Citizen Scientist! Wrap Up

Last month we focused on the 2025 Great Southeast Pollinator Census and how Florida residents and visitors could join in this citizen scientist project. Since this was only the second year Florida participated, we knew you would have lots of great questions!

Below is a recap of your inquiries and any references the panelists shared in case you wanted to dig deeper into the topic.

What is the Great Southeast Pollinator Census (GSEPC) and what is the data used for?
The pollinator census brings awareness of pollinators, encourages people to create habitat, and collects information that can be used to create baseline numbers and compare the population growth or decline over time.

How to identify bees, wasps, and other pollinators I see?
Luckily, you do not have to identify these insects to species – you only have to classify them into broad categories. Resources to help you spot key characteristics can be found here:
Bees of Florida
Pollinator Census Google Site

What time of day should I count?
Mornings and evenings are a great time to count because it is comfortable for the counter but also consider that time of day will affect the insects seen. For instance, many moths and beetles are active at night while honey bees are active during the day. Basically, there is no wrong time to count!

Will we be able to indicate which plants and whether or not they are native or non-native?
The GSEPC count sheet has a place for the plant name you are observing which can be common or scientific. There is not a designation on the form for native/non-native but if you use the scientific name that is easy to check when data is available.
Great Southeast Pollinator Census Counting Sheet

How to best encourage neighbors to get involved?
Print off some extra count sheets and invite people to join you or host a pollinator party!

 What can we do to increase pollinators in our yards?
Provide nesting habitats for native pollinators such as undisturbed bare ground, hollow stems, small debris piles, and pollinator hotels. Be sure to maintain pollinator hotels to encourage use.
Responsible use of pesticides – always read labels and avoid products with pollinator warnings.
Pollinator Hotels
Plant diverse flowering plants to provide pollen and nectar and provide water resources.
Simple Steps to Create a Pollinator Paradise in Your Landscape
Provide Water for Pollinators

Are bumble bees a protected species?
There are almost 50 different bumble bee species in the United States, and not all live in Florida. Two are listed as protected species, one that occurs in Oregon and another in the Central Plains and may be in our area. The common species we see in Florida, American Bumble Bee and Eastern Bumble Bee are not currently listed as protected or endangered. Find a Species | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Resources for Schools and Home Schools
Some public libraries have “Seed Libraries” and give out seed which may be appropriate for pollinators.
Seedlings for Schools Grants

Panelists favorite flowers for bees and other pollinators:
Abbey – purple coneflower and other Echinacea, Black-eyed Susan, Zinnia, Coreopsis
Beth – buttercup, goldenrod

Mark – yarrow, Stoke’s Aster (native to FL), Vitex agnus-castus Chaste Tree
Daniel – Vitex, Blue butterfly Clerodendrum, Firebush

Anything in the Aster Family!

Balance of controlling pests in vegetable garden but still welcoming pollinators.
Be tolerant of damage! Regardless of your tolerance level of damage be sure to use Integrated Pest Management strategies which may include trap crops, cover crops, and scouting regularly so you can catch pests early and hand pick when possible. If a pesticide is needed, use very specific targeted products such as Bt, soaps, or oils instead of broad-spectrum pesticides. (Always ensure products are listed for use on vegetable gardens and follow labels). Pesticide Labeling – A Guide to Users

Do you need a license to keep honey bees?
A license is not required; however, all bee hives must be registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
Beekeeper Registration– Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
UF/IFAS Research and Extension Honey Bee Lab has great resources for beekeepers!

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