Honey bee

Scientific name: Apis mellifera

Honeybees have been making honey for humans for thousands of years! These easily recognisable little bees are hard workers, living in large hives made of wax honeycombs.

Species information

Statistics

Length: 1.2cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

March to September

About

Probably the best known bee, the honeybee has been making honey for humans for thousands of years. In the wild they live in wooded areas in large hives made of wax honeycombs. The queen lays eggs whilst the workers care for the young, almost like a giant bee nursery! Every year a new queen will either take the place of her mother, or she will leave to start a colony of her own.

How to identify

The familiar black-and-gold Honey bee is almost unmistakeable. There are several species of hoverfly that look similar, but they have much larger eyes.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

A single bee hive may contain as many as 50,000 individuals. In winter, the hive goes into survival mode: the drones are expelled, the workers huddle together to keep warm, and the larvae are fed on stores of pollen and honey. In spring, a new generation of bees emerges.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.