On 22 September 2016, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service proposed a rule to list the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee as federally endangered.

There have been no observations in West Virginia since 2000.  There have, however, been historical sightings in West Virginia.   There are no records of sightings in extreme northern or extreme southern West Virginia.  The recorded sightings have been in a band that stretches across the middle of the state from Jefferson to Wayne Counties (roughly the second Congressional District with a few counties added top and bottom).

Now the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources would like to find out if it still exists in West Virginia.  So be on the lookout.  If you spot one, please contact Craig.W.Stihler Craig.W.Stihler@wv.gov.  Get a picture if you can.