The ivy bee is a fairly recent arrival to the UK, first recorded in 2001. It feeds mainly on the nectar of ivy flowers and can be seen in autumn when this plant is in bloom.
The ivy bee was first recorded in the UK in Dorset in 2001. It quickly spread throughout southern England and, by 2021, had reached Scotland. As suggested by its common name, ivy is the main plant used by this bee for pollen. It is seen when ivy is in flower, from early September to early November. Ivy bees nest in loose, light or sandy soil on southern-facing banks and cliffs with ivy nearby for foraging. They are solitary bees, but when conditions are suitable, there may be thousands of nests in the same area.
What to look for
The ivy bee looks similar to a honey bee; it has an orangey-brown, hairy thorax, and distinct black and yellow stripes on its abdomen.
Where to find
Found throughout England and Wales, and the Channel Islands. Also recorded in Scotland and on the Isle of Man.
Did you know?
Ivy bees feed mainly on ivy, so they time their emergence to fit in with the flowering period of this common plant: late September to November.
