In an extraordinary event, ecologist Molly Jacobson stumbled upon the Andrena rehni, or the chestnut mining bee, which many believed had vanished from New York since the early 20th century. This incredible finding took place this summer at a research orchard belonging to the College of Environmental Science and Forestry at the State University of New York in Syracuse. Jacobson was able to collect two specimens found on American chestnut flowers, marking the first recorded sighting in central New York and only the second known population in recent times.

The last recorded sighting of the Andrena rehni bee in the southern region of New York occurred back in 1904, after which there was a significant lack of documentation regarding its existence. The New York Natural Heritage Program had previously categorized this species as possibly extirpated, reflecting concerns regarding its survival in the state and contributing to discussions on biodiversity and ecosystem health. The reappearance of this bee strongly hints at the resilience of certain species and could have implications for conservation efforts.

Furthermore, this discovery highlights the importance of ongoing research and monitoring in areas like New York where habitat conditions can support rare and previously thought extinct species. It serves as a reminder of the critical role of local ecosystems and the potential for biodiversity recovery when necessary habitats are preserved and studied. Jacobson's work not only underscores the significance of her discovery but may also encourage further investigations into the status of other species that have not been sighted for decades.