Solitary Bee ID for Beginners

Course Detail

Begin the day with tea and coffee in the Seedpod, with an introduction to the remarkable diversity of bees found in the UK and here at Heligan. You will be guided through the fascinating world of solitary bees, exploring how they differ from honeybees and bumblebees and introducing the key features and behaviours that help with identification. You’ll learn how to recognise the most common species by looking closely at form, markings, habitat and movement, building the confidence to distinguish one from another.

After lunchand weather permitting, the workshop will move outdoors into the gardens. With expert guidance, you’ll put your new knowledge into practice searching for, observing and identifying solitary bees in their natural habitats. Will will share practical techniques for careful observation and photography.

Each participant will receive a bespoke identification guide to the most common solitary bees, designed to support continued learning long after the day ends. By the close of the workshop, you’ll have both the skills and the understanding to look more closely and to see these small but vital pollinators in a whole new light.

About Will Hawkes

Will Hawkes is an insect research scientist, photographer and storyteller. He grew up in the wilds of Northeast Wales surrounded by the natural world and moved down to Cornwall ten years ago to begin his academic journey. Through his research into migratory insects, he has worked all over the world learning their stories and behaviours. 

Will adores insects, they have given him so much in this life and his main aim is to give something back to them. Inspiring people to share his passion for these tiny lives is the most important thing for him as it leads to more understanding and then on to the hopeful protection of these remarkable little animals. 

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