Exploring the world of bee diversity

On Saturday 17 May, members of Gwent Beekeepers and nature enthusiasts gathered at the beautiful Holden Apiary for a workshop led by the project manager, Ciaran Clark, from Bees for Development.

The day was dedicated not to honeybees, as is usually the case, but to the other lesser known bee species, the quiet champions of pollination and biodiversity.

Workshop participants with microscopes

The workshop began at the Holden Centre with an engaging and insightful presentation by Ciaran, who brought to life the often-overlooked world of mining bees, nomad bees, flower bees, mason bees and many others. We learnt about their biology, characteristics and nesting habits, including the crucial role they play in our local ecosystems. His passion for entomology was infectious, and it was clear from the start that we were in for a rich day of learning and exploration.

Following the talk and as the weather warmed up, we headed out to the nearby banks of the river Usk. A walk rich with native wildflowers, and an especially important river cliff, that supports many nesting bee species.

Bee habitat on the bank of the river Monnow

Nomada marshamella (Marsham’s nomad bee) Female

Here, we were able to observe bees in their natural environment. With nets and guidebooks in hand, we took time to practice field identification—learning to distinguish between the many species of these incredible insects. Ciaran guided us in spotting nesting sites, identifying different genera, and understanding the kinds of habitat features that support different bee populations. For example, we saw five different species of Nomad bee, including this female Nomada marshamella (Marsham’s nomad bee), and observed them investigating the nests of their hosts in the bare soil. It was a hands-on experience that deepened our appreciation for these incredible pollinators.

We then returned to the Holden Centre for the final part of the workshop: microscope work. Under Ciaran’s guidance, we examined collected bee specimens and practiced using identification keys. It was fascinating to see up close the tiny differences that set species apart—the colours and characteristics of their body parts, the structure of their antennae, and the details of their pollen-collecting apparatus. For some, this was a first-time experience using microscopes in such a detailed and scientific way, and it opened a whole new level of understanding.

The day led to a deeper respect and understanding for these unsung pollinators, along with a desire to learn more. We at Gwent Beekeepers plan to revisit our wildflower planting to encourage more varied species. We also plan to build some large bug hotels to support and nurture the future of many bee species.

Thanks to Ciaran Clark for a fabulous day, we plan to do more workshops going forward and continue to sponsor and support his work.

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Bees for Development project manager Ciaran Clark presenting to the group