As World Bee Day approaches on 20 May, offering a timely reminder of pollinators' vital role in food security, biodiversity, and ecosystem health, many might find themselves pondering the intricate lives of the bees buzzing through their gardens. Distinguishing a common buff-tailed bumblebee from its parasitic cuckoo relative, or understanding which species can sting and which prefer a bee hotel to an underground nest, can seem a daunting task.
Fortunately, expert guidance is at hand. Dave Goulson, founder of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and a professor of biology at Sussex University, offers a comprehensive insight into these fascinating insects in his new publication, The Bee Spotter’s Guide.