Autumn is the time for ivy bees

If you have sandy soil and ivy nearby, you may be lucky enough to see the ivy bee.

By Our Gardens Matter

The ivy bee, a recent addition to the UK’s ecosystem, was first documented in 2001 and has since been gradually expanding its territory northward. This bee primarily sustains itself by consuming the nectar of ivy flowers, making its appearance most noticeable during the autumn months when these plants are in full bloom.

Since its initial sighting in the UK, the ivy bee has been observed in various regions of Southern England, Wales, and the Channel Islands. These bees strategically time their emergence to coincide with the blooming period of ivy, ensuring a bountiful food supply from late September to November. Ivy bees typically construct their nests in loose, light, or sandy soil near ivy-rich areas. Although solitary bees, under favourable conditions, numerous nests may be found clustered together in close proximity.

Resembling a honey bee in appearance, the ivy bee boasts an orangey-brown, hairy thorax, along with distinctive black and yellow stripes adorning its abdomen.

While I have an abundance of ivy in my garden, unfortunately, the heavy clay soil is not conducive for these bees. However, my mothers garden provides the ideal environment for these bees to thrive. They have been reliably appearing for several years now. You can easily spot the entrance to their deep tunnels in the soil, marked by a small mound of excavated dirt. Within these tunnels, they lay eggs and deposit pollen balls collected from the blooming ivy.

At times, there may be a flurry of bee activity, which can appear alarming. However, no need to worry, these bees are harmless and pose no threat.