RSPB Spotlight bumblebees

Bumblebees are our most important insects, and among the few that are almost universally viewed as friendly. Their soothing buzzing is the quintessential sound of our gardens in the summertime.

Our RSPB Spotlight book takes a closer look at the twenty-four bumblebee species in the UK, examining what made the group so successful and how circumstances have led to the survival of some species but the decline of the majority, highlighting the dangers we all face if populations continue to plummet.

Separate chapters cover all aspects of bumblebees biology and lifestyles, from spring queens emerging from dark overwintering chambers to establish their nests, to the drone swarms that herald the end of the bumblebee season.