Research on native bees in California landscapes by Dr. Gordon Frankie, among others, of the UC Berkeley Urban Bee Lab demonstrates that native bee density peaks at the suburban fringe. The rural landscape is heavily altered to the detriment of bee diversity. The research demonstrates that the suburban garden landscape actually presents the peak habitat for bee diversity in most of California. Rather than making claims based on annecdote, bias and nostalgic memory, isn't it better to consult the current research. Cite: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jennifer_Foltz_Sweat/publication/233819518_Ecological_Patterns_of_Bees_and_Their_Host_Ornamental_Flowers_in_Two_Northern_California_Cities/links/575b3bf908ae414b8e4679ab.pdf *********************************************** The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html