Study being done to get a better understanding of area's bumblebees

A new study is underway to identify the number — and types — of bumblebees in Skagit and Whatcom counties.

The study, which is led by Western Washington University graduate student Annie Jolliff, will also provide information about when the bees emerge from their nests each year.

Survey sites in the two counties are diverse. They include parks, a clear-cut forest area, the Western Washington University campus and Blanchard Mountain Farm in Bow.