![images of rusty patched bumblebees](/sites/default/files/styles/news_detail/public/2020-08/Mathy%20Property%2C%20Rusty%20Patched.jpeg?itok=OEXzqGP6)
While in the field with plant surveyors from the Monarch Joint Venture, the team reported seeing more rusty-patched bumble bees than monarch butterflies! Tom Rhorer photographed them (above). The location was at the Mathy quarry in the La Crosse Blufflands. The bumblebees were enjoying a patch of bee balm.
Bumble Bee Brigade is a good resource. If you photograph rust-patched bumblebees, please send your photos submitted there, preferably in 48 hours.