Urban environments, such as New York City, present unique ecological challenges and opportunities for Hymenoptera species (bees, wasps, sawflies, and ants). This study investigates the diversity, distribution, and ecological roles of Hymenoptera in New York’s urban and rural/suburban landscapes.

We gathered data from 2013-2024 by using Macaulay’s BioBlitz data, iNaturalist data, NYC Open Data, and NYS DEC data to assess the biodiversity and distribution of Hymenoptera species. This helped us compare and analyze species richness across New York. Thus, our analysis revealed a significant decline in Hymenoptera species richness and diversity in urban areas compared to rural and suburban landscapes.

Urban areas depend on ecology. Without Hymenoptera species, cities like New York City would not have clean air, water, and biodiversity. These species sustain our ecosystem, and without them we would not survive. Humans impact these species more negatively than positively. We are witnessing a biodiversity crisis, fueled by urbanization, pollution, deforestation, and climate change. It is crucial for us to recognize these negative impacts and work towards more sustainable practices to mitigate the harm we cause to the environment and its inhabitants. The time to act is now.