A vital native bee highway can start in your own backyard. While many people can easily recognize honey bees, the world of native bees is far more diverse. With tools like iNaturalist, an online platform that helps people identify species, even amateur enthusiasts can now learn to spot various native bees in their local area. These bees play a crucial role in pollinating plants, which supports food production and the health of ecosystems. However, bee populations worldwide are declining due to factors like habitat loss, climate change, and disease. Bees are essential for plant reproduction, which in turn supports food security and biodiversity. In Melbourne, studies have shown that planting native plants in backyards can significantly boost the number of native bee species. For example, the rare square-headed masked bee relies on native bluebells, which are more likely to be found in gardens with local flora. This highlights the importance of planting species that support native pollinators. Native bees typically travel short distances, often less than 100 meters from their nests. This means that connecting native gardens across neighborhoods can create a kind of "bee highway," helping bees move between habitats and increasing pollination. Researchers at the University of Melbourne have used data from over 5,000 bee-flower interactions to create models that predict which bee species are likely to be found in different areas of the city and which plants would best support them. These models have identified five key native bee species, each with unique habitat and dietary needs. For example, the large blue-banded bee requires more flowers than smaller species, while the masked bee relies heavily on specific native plants like banksias. Sweat bees, which are small and feed on a wide range of flowers, face challenges finding suitable nesting sites in urban areas. Leafcutter bees need pre-existing holes in wood for nesting, which are less common in cities. These insights help guide gardeners in choosing the best plants for their local environment, even in small spaces like balconies or flower beds. Efforts to support native bees are growing in Melbourne, with community groups and councils working together to encourage wildlife-friendly gardening. Programs like Gardens for Wildlife Melbourne have provided guidance to over 160 residents, helping them transform their gardens into havens for native insects. While some areas of the city already have strong community involvement, others are just beginning to embrace the trend. By planting native species in residential areas, Melburnians can help connect green spaces and support the movement of bees across the city. Planting native species is one of the best ways to support local bees. These plants have evolved to thrive in local conditions and provide the right resources for native pollinators. Local Indigenous nurseries can offer advice on which species are best suited to specific gardens. Whether you have a small balcony or a large backyard, choosing the right plants can make a meaningful difference in supporting biodiversity. As more people participate, the network of bee-friendly gardens will grow, helping native bees thrive in the urban landscape.