The Ivy Bee was first recorded in the UK in 2001, and has now been found in much of Southern England and Wales, and in the Channel Islands. As suggested by its common name, Ivy is the main plant used by this bee for pollen. It is seen when Ivy is in flower, from early September to early November. Ivy Bees nest in loose, light or sandy soil on southern-facing banks and cliffs with Ivy nearby for foraging. They are solitary bees, but when conditions are suitable, there may be thousands of nests in the same area.
How to identify
The Ivy Bee looks similar to a Honey Bee; it has an orangey-brown, hairy thorax, and distinct black and yellow stripes on its abdomen.
Did you know?
Ivy Bees feed exclusively on Ivy, so they time their emergence to fit in with the flowering period of this common plant: late September to November.
How people can help
The Wildlife Trusts record and monitor our local wildlife to understand the effects of various factors on their populations, such as the introduction of new species. You can help with this vital monitoring work by becoming a volunteer - you'll not only help local wildlife, but learn new skills and make new friends along the way.
