The Bees of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

By James Power

Author of The Bees of Sussex

For those who know our nature reserve well, it’s probably no surprise that Rye Harbour is one of the very best places for bees in Sussex – there aren’t many spots that can top the 130 or so species which have been found here.

Not only does Rye Harbour Nature Reserve win for the number of species, but it also stands out as a place to find some of the scarcer species, including some interesting new arrivals. Three of these are particularly striking: the Grey-backed Mining Bee, the Spring Colletes, and the Large Bear-clawed Nomad Bee (so named because of its bear-like – but tiny – claws).

Of these three recent settlers, the Grey-backed Mining Bee deserves a special mention. This beautiful grey and inky-black bee turned up on the nature reserve in 2017, after not having been seen in Sussex since 1945. Its return to the county has been part of a big shift in range, with sightings now from as far afield as Norfolk and Hampshire.

Its arrival here – and that of others now found on the nature reserve – is a sure sign that our climate has shifted. And while there’s always pleasure in finding something new, it’s also a reminder of the worrying times in which we live.

James' book is available to buy in the Discovery Centre or you can order a copy here.