GET RECORDING FOR HYMETTUS

Hymettus needs the help of BWARS members in gathering baseline data against which to measure range changes of the Moss Carder-bee Bombus muscorum and the Brown-banded Carder-bee Bombus humilis in Southern England. Anecdotal evidence suggests that B.humilis may be replacing B.muscorum in many areas and it has been suggested this may be linked to climate change. In 2007, B. muscorum surveys in upland Shropshire, the Lancashire coast and the Peak District failed to record the bee but it was recorded in NE England. Further surveys are being commissioned in the Peak District, North Kent and Cornwall in 2008 and in the latter two areas the ratio of B. muscorum to B. humilis sightings will also be collected.  

To supplement these surveys Hymettus is appealing for any 2007 records of these two species to be submitted to Paul Lee. Records of B. muscorum and/or B. humilis from the Pevensey Levels, Salisbury Plain and South Wales will be especially welcome. BWARS members are asked also to search actively for the bees during the coming field season but should recognise the difficulties in identifying and separating the two species. All records must have been verified by a recognised expert or must be supported by a specimen that can be submitted for verification. This will involve collection of specimens (preferably males) and so should be carried out later in the season (early August is the peak activity period) when it is less likely or unlikely to threaten the success of a nest. 

Verified records can be sent to

Paul Lee

Hymettus coordinator

e-mail: paulatarachne@aol.com or paulatarachne@googlemail.com  

Contact the Hymettus coordinator for details of where to send specimens collected for validation