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Bees & Heatwaves
Project Lead: Yanet Sepulveda
Contact: BuzzClub@sussex.ac.uk
Running: July to Sept (can join at any point)
Why choose this project?
Bumblebees are essential for our ecosystems, playing a critical role in pollinating numerous crops & wildflowers. However, due to their thick, furry coats, they may be prone to overheating in hot weather. With the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, it is crucial to understand how these pollinators cope in the challenging conditions.
Help us answer the following questions:
a) do bumblebees change their activity patterns in a heatwave?
b) which plants do they visit during a heatwave?
This data will help us create a guide showing how we can all help bumblebees going forward.
How can you help?
We need people around the country to observe bumblebees before, during and after a heatwave and let us know when you saw them, what you saw, and what flowers they liked! This will need to be done three times a day within a short time period - we will advise you as to when. Below are the documents you will need to take part in this project - they will also be emailed to you when you sign up.
What do you get out of it?
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During this project you will learn to identify plants and bumblebees, get better acquainted with those in your garden and contribute to essential science! You will be supported throughout by Yanet and Issy - we will hold a webinar to answer any of your questions ready for the expected heatwaves this year!