Bee Fact – Number 3

Solitary bees make up the vast majority of bee species worldwide – of the UK’s 270 bee species just under 250 are solitary. As their name suggests these bees don’t live in colonies with queens and drones. Instead each female builds her own nest using a variety of techniques and materials below, on or above the ground depending upon species. And they aren’t all completely solitary – females may nest together and the gorgeously named Chocolate Mining Bee shares communal entrances to nesting sites. Interestingly, it’s reported that male eggs are laid closer to nest entrances than female eggs – the clever bees can sex their offspring!

For more information read the Natural History Society of Northumbria’s https://www.nhsn.org.uk/a-short-guide-to-solitary-bees/#:~:text=Unlike%20honeybees%20and%20bumblebees,%20solitary,oils%20as%20their%20nesting%20material.Short Guide to Solitary Bees – 

For more information about the Bee Fayre, Wallbarn’s connection to it and how you can support the UK bee population click here – https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1461674967932367