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NewsVoice of San DiegoAugust 18, 2026San Diego

Advocacy group campaigns for native bee species to be named California's official state bee

An advocacy group is campaigning to ensure that one of California's 1,600 native bee species is selected as the state's first official bee, rather than the non-native honeybee. The effort aims to raise awareness about the ecological role of native pollinators.

environmentwildlifestate symbolsCalifornia
Read the full story at Voice of San Diego

Why It Matters

The selection of an official state bee could influence public awareness and conservation priorities regarding California's 1,600 species.

Key Facts

  • California is currently in the process of selecting its first official state bee.
  • There are 1,600 native bee species currently identified in California.
  • An advocacy group is actively opposing the selection of the honeybee, which is a non-native species.
  • The campaign advocates for the recognition of native pollinators over introduced species.

Who's Mentioned

other19“Number of native bee species candidates for the state bee vote”other700“Number of native bee species in San Diego County”organizationCalifornia Native Bee Society“Organization advocating for native bee conservation”other1,600“Number of native bee species in California”organizationVoice of San Diego“The news outlet that published the article.”locationCalifornia“The state where the bee selection process is occurring.”personJess Mullins“President of the California Native Bee Society and PhD in ecology”