How it fits into North Yorkshire wildlife
This insect is one of the small workers keeping North Yorkshire alive. Insects pollinate flowers, recycle nutrients and feed birds, bats and other wildlife, so even tiny species can have an outsized effect.
How it interacts with the wider landscape
Bee numbers have fallen sharply since the 1980s. Letting a corner of any garden grow into a patch of wildflowers gives them the nectar and pollen they need.
Seasonal rhythm
Warmth, flowering cycles and clean water or shelter all affect how strongly this species can appear from one season to the next.
Where to look and what to notice
Look around flowers, ponds, field margins and sunny sheltered spots where insects can feed, hunt or breed.
What people can do
Plant lavender, thyme, foxgloves and native wildflowers. Avoid pesticides. Leave bare soil and dead stems for solitary bees to nest in.