The Essential Role of Migratory Honey Bees in U.S. Crop Pollination

Agriculture in the United States owes much of its success to an often-overlooked partner: the honey bee. These industrious pollinators, particularly the European honey bee, play a critical role in cultivating specialty crops such as almonds, sunflowers, apples, and canola. Their adaptability, ease of transport, and manageable nature make them the preferred choice for commercial pollination.

But what sets honey bees apart is their migratory lifestyle, which aligns with the blooming schedules of crops across the country. Let’s explore the remarkable journey of these traveling pollinators.

bees pollinate crops

The Start of the Migration Path

Each year, California becomes the epicenter of U.S. pollination activity in early spring. Why? Almonds. This crop relies almost exclusively on honey bee pollination, making California’s almond bloom a must-visit destination for beekeepers.

  • An estimated 60-75% of all U.S. commercial hives are brought to California for this vital event.
  • Hives travel from as far as Florida, Texas, and beyond, converging in almond orchards to support the state’s massive agricultural industry.

After the almond bloom, the paths of migratory beekeepers diverge to support a wide range of crops across the nation.

The Journey After Almond Season

Once the almond bloom concludes, hives are dispersed based on crop needs and seasonal patterns:

  1. Northern Migration for Orchard and Berry Crops

    • Many hives move north to service orchards and berries. States such as Washington and Oregon are popular destinations for apples, cherries, and blueberries.

  2. Southern and Eastern Migration for Specialty Crops

    • Other beekeepers head to southern and eastern states, where hives are used to pollinate sunflowers, canola, and other specialty crops.

  3. Summer Foraging in the Great Plains

    • During the summer months, 65-80% of commercial hives spend time foraging in the northern Great Plains. This region provides an ideal environment for bees to thrive and replenish after intensive pollination seasons.

Overwintering in the South

As summer transitions into fall, beekeepers prepare their hives for overwintering. Many hives are transported to southern states, where bees rest and recuperate before embarking on the next year’s pollination circuit.

Overwintering ensures the survival of honey bee colonies, allowing them to recover from the stress of long-distance travel and pollination demands.

Why Honey Bees Are Critical to U.S. Agriculture

Migratory honey bees are far more than pollinators—they are essential to the success of U.S. agriculture. Without them:

  • Crops like almonds, apples, and berries would face significantly reduced yields.
  • The agricultural economy would suffer, as honey bees contribute billions of dollars in pollination services annually.

This dynamic partnership between bees and agriculture highlights the importance of protecting pollinator health, reducing pesticide exposure, and ensuring sustainable farming practices.

The Buzz Behind Your Favorite Crops

The next time you enjoy a handful of almonds or a crisp apple, take a moment to appreciate the journey of the honey bee. These tireless pollinators travel thousands of miles, ensuring that crops across the United States flourish. Their migratory paths not only support agriculture but also underscore the interconnectedness of our food systems.

Protecting honey bees isn’t just about preserving a species—it’s about safeguarding the future of food production.

Want to learn more about the fascinating world of pollinators?  about the importance of bees to our ecosystems.Read more