Introduction to Bumblebees

Learn about bumblebee ecology and how to identify the common species in Kent, both inside and outside the classroom The day will begin with a presentation covering the types of bee in the UK, the biology and ecology of bumblebees, and why they need conserving. After a break, we will then go through how to identify the 7 most common species in the South East and how to contribute to their recording. After a lunch break, there will be group work in the classroom to practice the identification methods on dried specimens and checking certain features together using a microscope displayed through the screen. Weather allowing, the group will then go into the grounds with collecting equipment to catch and identify live bumblebees. By the end of the day, it is expected that participants should: • Understand more about the lifecycle, behaviour and ecology of bumblebees • Be able to identify the common species found in gardens and elsewhere • Know the options for getting started on recording bumblebees • Know where to look for more information on identification and conservation Suitable for Beginners – Bumblebee ecology will be introduced and the identification of common species covered Led by Simon Springate, Kent’s Plan Bee Officer and a BeeWalk volunteer for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust for over 15 years. Photo: Bumblebee on Knapweed (Richard Moyse) For further information, please visit the Study Days page of the Kent Wildlife Trust website.