A unique and culturally significant species of burrowing bee has caused a buzz in the Gascoyne region after making an appearance at Gwoonwardu Mia’s Burrowing Bee Community Day.

Funded by the Western Australian Museum Foundation, the June 24 event encouraged the community to celebrate the cultural significance of the region's Mungurragurra, known as the Dawson’s Burrowing Bee species.

Travelling exhibition Western Australian Museum Container gave visitors the opportunity to observe the Burrowing Bee up close, with WA Museum Curator of Entomology Nik Tatarnic hosting an information session for community members to learn the science behind the bee’s significance.

Gwoonwardu Mia Regional Manager Barry Bellotti said the team were thrilled to witness the incredible interest and enthusiasm generated by the Mungurragurra Burrowing Bee Community Day.

"This event serves as a testament to the Gascoyne region's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage and unique biodiversity,” he said.

“We are proud to support initiatives like these that foster community engagement and education."

The event included the launch of an all-new Interactive Colouring-in Table, which allows visitors to create their own animated Burrowing Bee to be included in a visual exhibition.

Gwoonwardu Mia’s Community Day also saw the launch of the Mungurragurra Burrowing Bee Educational Program.

The program will enable educators to incorporate engaging hands-on Burrowing Bee activities into their curriculum through the facilitation of a Loan Box, which includes educational resources, specimens, and informative materials.

WA Museum CEO Alec Coles said he appreciated the event and highlighted the creative way it incorporated cultural heritage and biodiversity.

"The Mungurragurra Burrowing Bee Community Day is a remarkable example of how cultural heritage, biodiversity, and community engagement can be beautifully intertwined,” he said.

“It is a testament to the commitment of the Gascoyne region and the WA Museum to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our natural world."