Common carder bee photographed by David Podmore in Amersham, Buckinghamshire and submitted to the Great British Bee Count 2015.
Nature-lovers are being urged by environmentalists, bee scientists and wildlife gardening experts to help the nation’s under-threat bees by creating pollinator-friendly gardens, schools and neighbourhoods, ahead of this year’s Great British Bee Count (May 19 – June 30, 2017).
Early bumblebee (Bombus pratorum), Sunderland by Sharon Lashley submitted to the Great British Bee Count 2016.
Now in its fourth year, the Great British Bee Count inspires members of the public to download a fun, free app to identify and find out more about how we can help some of the amazing bees that we share our towns and countryside with.
White-tailed bumblebee (Bombus lucorum), Chesterfield by Janice Dyson submitted to the Great British Bee Count 2016.
This year’s app is even better, with more bees and plant species, clearer identification and more information on how to help bees. The bee sightings will be mapped on www.greatbritishbeecount.co.uk and shared on the National Biodiversity Network, where researchers, experts and local authorities can access the data.
Great British Bee Count 2016 app
Habitat loss is one of the biggest threats Britain’s bees face, which is why it’s more important than ever that we understand more about Britain’s 260+ bee species, and why bee scientists and wildlife gardening experts are urging people to play their part by creating bee-friendly habitats. 
Kate Bradbury, wildlife gardening expert and author of The Wildlife Gardener said: “Getting to know bees is one of the most rewarding experiences. From the big buzzy bumbles to red mason and leafcutter bees, to tiny things that you’d never see if you didn’t stop to look, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered. And, by taking a few simple measure, you can help these vital pollinators too.”
Bee expert, Professor Dave Goulson, from the University of Sussex said: “Our wonderful wild British bees are under threat. But the good news is that everyone can help. Plant some bee-friendly flowers or herbs in your garden, in a pot on your balcony or in a window box, or persuade your school to create a bee friendly space – then sit back and enjoy the sight and sound of lovely buzzing bees. Cutting out pesticide sprays will help the bees, and the birds and butterflies too.”
