The Bees of Sussex

Have you ever wondered how many species of bee we have in Sussex? And did you know that Sussex is one of the richest, most diverse counties in Britain for bees? Now, at last, our solitary bees and bumblebees are getting the column inches – and the spotlight – they deserve.

We live in a county of chalk cliffs, rolling hills, dense woodlands and flat marshes. In every one of our contrasting landscapes, we’re seeing populations shift against a background of decline, new species arrive, and behaviours adapt right before our eyes.

The Bees of Sussex is many things: a glimpse into the mysterious lives of pollinators, a deep dive into every one of the species which finds a home here, a snapshot of nature at a worrying point in time, and a beautifully illustrated appreciation of the local habitats our countryside provides.

Whether you’re simply curious, a seasoned observer with a net and microscope, or an aculeate specialist from beyond our borders, you’re invited to find something to enjoy here.