Bumblebees The Natural History & Identification of the Species Found in Britain.New Naturalist Series No 98.First edition. by Benton, Ted - 2006

London: Harper Collins, 2006. First edition, 2006. Hardback. xi, 580pp. Dust jacket in a protective sleeve. Bumblebees are a group of relatively large, colourful and familiar insects. Unlike honey bees, bumblebees work on plants with no nectar, and play a crucial role in the pollination of flowers and vegetables. Farming relies very heavily on these efficient pollinators. However, bumblebee populations have been declining at an alarming rate, with three of the UK populations already extinct and another nine listed as endangered species. A further decline in numbers could have a serious impact on the farming industry, as well as be a cause of great concern for gardeners, conservationists and field naturalists. This book examines all aspects of the natural history of bumblebees, from their life cycle to foraging behaviour, their psychology and conservation. Ted Benton combines 15 years of his own field studies and unique photographic record of each species with research and findings, to provide a detailed and comprehensive account of the lives and conservation status of the remaining 22 species of bumblebees found in the UK. Beautifully illustrated with colour photographs and black & white maps and diagrams. Jacket design by Robert Gillmor. Book as new and unread. Dust jacket fine and unclipped. Just a little colour fade to spine. A heavy book but no additional shipping costs to UK destinations