Bumblebees

About this book

Over 160 colour photographs of bumblebees in the wild and in the garden capture the essence of bumblebees, showing them on a wide variety of familiar flowers. This is a visually stimulating book and an inspiration for gardeners and nature watchers alike.

Bumblebees are illustrated and described in gardens, woods and coppices, with suggestions and ideas for encouraging their presence in our gardens. Conservation is a main theme, with Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) species listed, and the book also offers a European perspective on bumblebees and notes their decline. Habitat loss is the enemy of wildlife; the UK has seen a 70% drop in bumblebee numbers from their pre-1970's haunts. Both this and global warming and its effects on bumblebees are dealt with, including the illustration of useful long-flowering plants.

'What you can do' sections give practical advice and there are fascinating facts throughout. The book is complete with sections on further information, glossary and details of societies, helpful websites and where to obtain bumblebee boxes and bumblebee wildflower mixes. There is much that members of the general public and gardeners can do to improve bumblebee habitats and tilt the scales in their favour.
 

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Biography

John Feltwell, a well-known naturalist with 40 books to his name, is a professional photographer and entomologist. He was one of the first to promote wildlife gardening in Britain so this foray into the world of bumblebees is a natural extension.