The Bees of Sussex
James Power
A new guide to the incredible diversity of wild bees in Sussex, with photographs, maps, and a glimpse into the life of every species.
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 – and also a county affected by a changing climate. 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.
James Power, the author of The Bees of Sussex, spent much of his childhood exploring the wide-open spaces of Salisbury Plain. The freedom to roam for hours on end and discover populations of Marsh Fritillary butterflies, Stone Curlews and Fairy Shrimps sparked an interest which ultimately led to a career in nature conservation. Regrettably, bees were not yet on his radar, but their time would come.
His career as a nature conservationist has lasted almost 40 years and has included spells with two different Wildlife Trusts, Defra, the Severn Gorge Countryside Trust, the National Trust, and even the National Parks department in Malawi. Within Britain, he’s worked in Wiltshire, Yorkshire, Surrey, Shropshire, and now – the perfect place to land – Sussex.
Published February 2024
Hardback, 240 × 170mm, 480 pp ISBN 978-1-913994-11-2
Pisces Publications
Proceeds from the sale of this book are being donated to Bees, Wasps & Ants
Recording Society and Sussex Biodiversity Record Centre.
The Bees of Sussex is supported by:
