Rare sea aster mining bee spotted at Somerset marshes
Naturalists have discovered a rare sea aster mining bee at Steart Marshes in Somerset after habitat restoration work.
Discovery marks unexpected arrival
Nigel Phillips, a local naturalist, identified the tiny zebra-striped insect while surveying the reserve. The find was described as a huge surprise because these bees are typically found along England's south and east coasts.
Habitat changes enabled survival
Saltmarsh restoration projects completed in 2014 transformed former farmland into coastal wetlands at the site. This work allowed seawater to flow back across the fields, creating ideal conditions for the newcomer.
Bees rely on specific flowers
The species depends on sea aster blooms that appear on coastal marshes as summer moves into autumn. Observations noted several colonial nest areas located in dry sandy ground within the reserve.
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