McMaster University recognizes that the University and surrounding Hamilton area, including their nature spaces, are situated on traditional territories shared between the Haudenosaunee confederacy and Anishnaabe nations. These lands are protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum belt. The wampum uses the symbolism of a dish to represent the territory, and one spoon to represent that the people are to share the resources of the land and only take what they need.
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Nature @ McMaster

Stop#4 – Bates Residence

Found near the Bates Residence Building is the fourth stop on the Bee Trail. This bee location holds five bee homes that are made with pine wood and filled with paper tubes, providing nesting homes for local bees on campus and the surrounding areas. These homes were nestled between some trees and greenery during the 100in1Day community event by Facility Services and the Academic Sustainability Program’s Office.

 

Fun Fact: Unfortunately, bees are facing many challenges, from pesticides to climate change. Reporting sightings of species at risk to organizations like Friends of the Earth or iNaturalist can help scientists track and protect these important pollinators. (1)

 

Species Highlight: Carpenter bees (Xylocopa virginica) are unique for their wood-chewing abilities, creating nests by burrowing into wood, often making a distinctive round hole. (2)

 

References:

  1. Henry H. NATIVE BEES OF ONTARIO [Internet]. Halton Region Master Gardeners. 2021. Available from: https://haltonmastergardeners.com/2021/03/17/native-bees-of-ontario/
  2. Pollinator Facts [Internet]. Pollinator Partnership Canada. Available from: https://pollinatorpartnership.ca/en/pollinator-facts