Bees in Wyoming: identification guide and best places to start
Yes, bees are common in Wyoming. You'll find them in meadows, gardens, and along trails from late spring to early fall. Start in areas with wildflowers like sagebrush and clover. Focus on size, color, and behavior to tell bumblebees, honeybees, and native solitary bees apart.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Bombus flavidus flavidus · Loren Cassin Sackett CC BY
Western Bumble Bee · Public domain CC0
Nevada Bumble Bee · J Brew CC BY-SA
- 8
- species recorded
- 0
- GBIF records
- July, June, August
- peak months
Bees aren't established in Wyoming, so you might be wondering:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
41 types of bees recorded in Wyoming
41 bee species have a verified observation record in Wyoming across bees (clade Anthophila), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
3 of the 41 shown are recorded as introduced to Wyoming rather than native.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Also recorded in Wyoming
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Two-spotted Bumble BeeBombus bimaculatus | Bombus bimaculatus | 123 |
| 14 | Brown-belted Bumble BeeBombus griseocollis | Bombus griseocollis | 117 |
| 15 | Forest Bumble BeeBombus sylvicola | Bombus sylvicola | 83 |
| 16 | Orange-legged Furrow BeeHalictus rubicundus | Halictus rubicundus | 65 |
| 17 | American Bumble BeeBombus pensylvanicus | Bombus pensylvanicus | 59 |
| 18 | Yellowish Cuckoo Bumble beeBombus flavidus | Bombus flavidus | 59 |
| 19 | California Bumble BeeBombus californicus | Bombus californicus | 51 |
| 20 | Golden-belted Bumble BeeBombus kirbiellus | Bombus kirbiellus | 44 |
| 21 | Colorado Black-notched Bumble BeeBombus bifarius | Bombus bifarius | 41 |
| 22 | Black-tailed Bumble BeeBombus melanopygus | Bombus melanopygus | 38 |
| 23 | Ligated Furrow BeeHalictus ligatus | Halictus ligatus | 34 |
| 24 | Green Small-MasonHoplitis fulgida | Hoplitis fulgida | 27 |
| 25 | Western Leafcutter BeeMegachile perihirta | Megachile perihirta | 27 |
| 26 | Bicolored Striped Sweat BeeAgapostemon virescens | Agapostemon virescens | 21 |
| 27 | Black-and-gray Leafcutter BeeMegachile melanophaea | Megachile melanophaea | 21 |
| 28 | Urbane Digger BeeAnthophora urbana | Anthophora urbana | 20 |
| 29 | European Woolcarder BeeIntroducedAnthidium manicatum | Anthidium manicatum | 20 |
| 30 | frigid bumble beeBombus frigidus | Bombus frigidus | 19 |
| 31 | Bumblebee-like Digger BeeAnthophora bomboides | Anthophora bomboides | 18 |
| 32 | Fine striped sweat beeAgapostemon subtilior | Agapostemon subtilior | 18 |
| 33 | Alfalfa Leafcutter BeeIntroducedMegachile rotundata | Megachile rotundata | 16 |
| 34 | Prunus Miner BeeAndrena prunorum | Andrena prunorum | 15 |
| 35 | Unarmed Leafcutter BeeMegachile inermis | Megachile inermis | 15 |
| 36 | Pugnacious Leafcutter BeeMegachile pugnata | Megachile pugnata | 13 |
| 37 | Southern Plains Bumble BeeBombus fraternus | Bombus fraternus | 12 |
| 38 | Milwaukee Mining BeeAndrena milwaukeensis | Andrena milwaukeensis | 11 |
| 39 | Morrison's Bumble BeeNativeBombus morrisoni | Bombus morrisoni | 11 |
| 40 | Orange-tipped Wood-diggerAnthophora terminalis | Anthophora terminalis | 10 |
| 41 | Anthophora walshiiAnthophora walshii | Anthophora walshii | 10 |
Plus 67 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
7,658 verified observations on iNaturalist of bee have been recorded in Wyoming, most often in July, June, August.
When bee are recorded in Wyoming
Yes, bees are common in Wyoming. You'll find them in meadows, gardens, and along trails from late spring to early fall. Start in areas with wildflowers like sagebrush and clover. Focus on size, color, and behavior to tell bumblebees, honeybees, and native solitary bees apart.
1. Where are you most likely to spot bees in Wyoming?
Bees show up wherever flowers bloom. Your best odds are in mountain meadows, along prairie trails, and in gardens with native plants. In Wyoming, look for them near wild sunflowers, coneflowers, and bee balm. Riparian zones along rivers also attract many species. Check out our/animals/beepage for more on bee habitats.
In Wyoming, bees sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
2. What season or weather patterns help for bee spotting?
Bee activity peaks from late May through September. Warm, sunny days with temperatures above 60°F are ideal. Early morning and late afternoon are often best because bees are busy collecting nectar. Avoid windy or rainy days. Spring brings solitary bees, while summer is prime for bumblebees and honeybees.
3. How can you tell Wyoming bees apart from lookalikes?
Start with body shape. Bumblebees are large and fuzzy, honeybees are smaller with slender bodies, and solitary bees like leafcutters are often metallic. Look for pollen baskets on hind legs. Wasps have smooth bodies and narrow waists. Flies have only one pair of wings and hover. For more details, visit the/wildlife/wyominghub.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. What are the most common bee species in Wyoming?
You'll likely see the Western bumblebee, common eastern bumblebee, and European honeybee. Native solitary bees include sweat bees, mason bees, and leafcutter bees. The yellow-faced bee is a small native that visits composites. Each species has a different flight season, so timing matters. Explore/stickersfor bee identification visuals.
5. What plants attract bees in Wyoming gardens?
Native plants work best. Try Rocky Mountain penstemon, blanketflower, blue flax, and goldenrod. Clover and alfalfa also bring in honeybees. Provide a water source like a shallow dish with stones. Avoid pesticides. For a full list, check our garden guides.
6. Why are bees important to Wyoming’s ecosystem?
Bees are key pollinators for wildflowers and crops. Wyoming’s sagebrush steppe and alpine meadows rely on native bees. Without them, many plants would fail to produce seeds. Even backyard gardens benefit from their work. Always leave some bare ground for ground-nesting bees.
7. Gifts for Bee Lovers in Wyoming
Show your support with bee-themed gear from Easy Street Markets. First, the **Honey Bee in Flight Women's T-Shirt** features a flying honey bee design.
Honey Bee in Flight Women's T-Shirt
This fitted tee reminds us of the value honey bees bring. Made with sublimation print, it's a great conversation starter.Check Price and Availability
Next, the **Honey Bee Tumbler Wrap** is perfect for customizing your drinkware.
Honey Bee Tumbler Wrap Laser Svg 20oz
A laser engraving design featuring a honeycomb and floral pattern. Great for DIY projects.Check Price and Availability
Finally, the **Custom Embroidery Bee Baseball Cap** adds a subtle bee accent.
Custom Embroidery Bee Baseball Cap
A comfortable cap with an embroidered bee logo. Ideal for outdoor outings.Check Price and Availability
Browse more bee items at/stickers.
8. Frequently Asked Questions about bees in Wyoming
**Are honeybees native to Wyoming?** No, honeybees were introduced from Europe. Native bees include bumblebees and solitary species.
**When do bees emerge in Wyoming?** Solitary bees appear in early spring, bumblebees in late spring, and honeybees are active all season.
**Can I have a beehive in my backyard?** Yes, check local regulations. Provide a water source and avoid pesticides.
**What should I do if I find a bee swarm?** Contact a local beekeeper or extension office. Swarms usually move on quickly.
**How can I help bees in Wyoming?** Plant native flowers, leave bare soil for ground-nesters, and reduce chemical use.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Plan your trip
Best time to see bee in Wyoming: July, June, August
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your bee sighting in Wyoming
There are no verified bee records for Wyoming, which fits how uncommon they are here. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Wyoming
- Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Devils Tower National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Fossil Butte National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Grand Teton National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Yellowstone National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- California National Historic Trail · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What bee species live in Wyoming?+
Bees show up wherever flowers bloom. Your best odds are in mountain meadows, along prairie trails, and in gardens with native plants. In Wyoming, look for them near wild sunflowers, coneflowers, and bee balm. Riparian zones along rivers also attract many species. Check out our/animals/beepage for more on bee habitats. In Wyoming, bees sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see bees in Wyoming?+
Bees show up wherever flowers bloom. Your best odds are in mountain meadows, along prairie trails, and in gardens with native plants. In Wyoming, look for them near wild sunflowers, coneflowers, and bee balm. Riparian zones along rivers also attract many species. Check out our/animals/beepage for more on bee habitats. In Wyoming, bees sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see bees in Wyoming?+
Bees show up wherever flowers bloom. Your best odds are in mountain meadows, along prairie trails, and in gardens with native plants. In Wyoming, look for them near wild sunflowers, coneflowers, and bee balm. Riparian zones along rivers also attract many species. Check out our/animals/beepage for more on bee habitats. In Wyoming, bees sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see bee
More wildlife in Wyoming
Common questions about bees