A review of the solitary bees (Hymenoptera) of Suffolk by Suffolk Naturalists' Society

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

A REVIEW OF THE SOLITARY BEES (HYMENOPTERA) OF SUFFOLK ADRIAN KNOWLES Introduction It is now over 80 years since Claude Morley published a systematic review of his knowledge of the county’s bee fauna (Morley, 1936). Inevitably, there has been a great deal of change since then. Some species have, beyond reasonable doubt, become extinct, either in Suffolk or the UK as a whole, a few species have colonised the county, perhaps fuelled by climate change, and a few mistakes have been made along the way. With the recent publication of a new “field guide” to the bees of Great Britain (Falk, 2015), this group is now becoming more accessible to the curious general naturalist. It therefore seems appropriate to review the change in status of the bees of Suffolk, in the hope that it might assist those beginning to study these fascinating insects. In doing so, it should be remembered that this is a hugely underrecorded group still, so that just because an account below says a species does not occur in the north of the county, for example, it does not mean that this holds true, so a specimen should not be dismissed just because it does not fit the perceived pattern. As Recorder for the Suffolk Naturalists’ Society, I am always happy to check the identity of specimens, to confirm suspicions of an important discovery. This review does not cover the bumblebees, for which see Knowles (2011). It is inevitable that some significant records will have been overlooked during the process of compiling this report. The author welcomes any corrections and additions for scarce species for inclusion within a future update. Data on national distributions and further ecological notes for most species can be seen on the website of the Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Society (BWARS) (www.bwars.com). Taxonomy Claude Morley’s first attempt at reviewing the Suffolk bee fauna was “The Hymenoptera of Suffolk” (Morley, 1899). In the introduction he comments on the challenge of compiling such a catalogue and states that, “the only difficulty that might have arisen is in synonymy; this, however, has already been worked out by my predecessors, and there is now a-days no confusion possible upon that score”. One would hope that Morley was pragmatic enough to assume that, over one hundred years on from when those words were written, time would have marched on and revisions to nomenclature would have taken place, but even he might have been bewildered by the changes to aculeate taxonomy in the intervening period. Even within Morley’s time many species underwent taxonomic revision and nomenclature change and these are occasionally reflected in the synonymy of his main later work (Morley, 1936). Since 1936, all possible events have probably occurred: one species has been split into two new species (and possibly back again); senior synonyms have replaced their juniors; nomenclature changes have been made erroneously and later reverted back again and every now and then the great man just got it wrong! For one or two species, Morley’s printed nomenclature still remains uncertain and, in the absence of museum specimens, will have to remain so for the time being. Those of you who wish to view Morley’s 1936 paper can view it via the website issuu.com/suffolknaturalistssociety/docs/tsns3_2_e. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

In the following accounts, reference is made to the names used by Morley in a synonymy statement. Thus, a curious student studying Morley’s writings might be able to more readily translate a species into modern terminology. The taxonomy presented here is essentially that followed by Falk (2015). The bees of Britain are thus divided into six families: Colletidae, Andrenidae, Halictidae, Melittidae, Megachilidae and Apidae. Other authors have occasionally reduced these names to sub-family level (Colletinae, Andreninae etc.) all within the family Apidae, whilst others have recognised Anthophoridae as a separate family. Acknowledgement The author wishes to thank Kathryn Riddington for arranging access to the Ipswich Museum collection, to search for specimens of critical species. Martin Sanford at the Suffolk Biodiversity Information Service has generated the distribution maps used here. COLLETIDAE Colletes daviesanus Smith, F., 1846 Synonymy: Colletes daviesana A relatively common and widespread species, although largely avoiding the central parts of the county belt on account of its nesting requirements for dry soils, although it does occasionally utilise soft sandstone and mortar in old walls.

Colletes fodiens (Geoffroy in Fourcroy, 1785) Widespread around Breckland and coastal districts where sandy substrates provide nesting habitat. Colletes halophilus Verhoeff, 1943 This species was only described as new to science shortly before Morley’s death, before which specimens would have been referred to its sibling, Colletes succinctus. Ipswich Museum holds specimens of C. halophilus from Southwold dated 9/9/1921 and 25/9/1936, both determined long after Morley’s death. Today, it is reasonably frequent along the south-eastern coast, where its primary forage plant (Sea Aster Aster tripolium) grows in abundance in the larger saltmarshes. A 2006 record by the author from Maidscross Hill near Lakenheath is probably due to vagrancy. The two females were swept from flowers of Common Ragwort Senecio jacobaea, a known alternative forage plant in coastal localities. Colletes hederae Schmidt & Westrich, 1993 (see Front Cover) This is another relatively newly appreciated species, previously considered to be a form of C. halophilus. It was first recorded from mainland Britain in 2001 and has spread rapidly across southern England. Its current distribution in Suffolk largely reflects the distribution of the sandy soils in which it nests, rather than the distribution of its forage plant. Its main forage plant is Ivy Hedera helix and, as such, it is one of the later bees to remain active. In coastal areas, care needs to be taken to not confuse this species with C. halophilus, which, although slightly smaller, also visits Ivy flowers as a nectar source.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Colletes hederae

Colletes marginatus Smith, F., 1846 Synonymy: Colletes marginata In Suffolk, only known from the Brecks, which represents the only inland locality for this small bee which is otherwise a species of coastal sand dunes. Within Breckland, it has been widely recorded. Colletes similis Schenck, 1853 Synonymy: Colletes picistigma Thinly scattered in Breckland and the coastal districts, largely on sandy soils. Specimens, especially worn females, can be difficult to separate from C. fodiens. Colletes succinctus (Linnaeus, 1758) Synonymy: Colletes succincta This is ostensibly a heathland species, widespread in Breckland and the coastal Sandlings. It occasionally occurs in the absence of its main pollen source (heather and heaths, Calluna vulgaris and Erica spp.), as at Great Blakenham where it has been recorded nesting within sandy over-burden on top of chalk. Here, as elsewhere on non-heathland sites, it is thought to be utilising yellow compositae such as Common Ragwort Senecio jacobaea as a pollen source. See map overleaf.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Colletes succinctus

Hylaeus annularis (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: considerable care needs to be taken with this name and associated records, since it was previously used for what is now known as Hylaeus dilatatus. H. annularis was previously known as Hylaeus spilotus Forster, 1871. It is a rare example of where Falk’s assigned English names are undoubtedly helpful. This is his “Shingle Yellow-faced Bee” and it is quite strictly confined to coastal shingle habitats. This species was not recorded by Morley, although it may have been present during his time. In Suffolk it has only been recorded from Orfordness, but may occur in other areas of coastal vegetated shingle or sand dune. Hylaeus brevicornis Nylander, 1852 Synonymy: Prosopis brevicornis Probably reasonably widespread across the county. Hylaeus communis Nylander, 1852 Synonymy: Prosopis communis Given its important role as a pollinator, Morley (1936) curiously describes it as “A pest on Rubus-flowers everywhere”. It remains common across the county, foraging on a wide variety of plants.

Hylaeus confusus Nylander, 1852 Synonymy: Prosopis confusa Probably thinly scattered across the county, although current recording bias shows Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

a lack of records from the central zone of largely heavier soils. It nests in aerial locations such as hollow twigs and stems as well as standing dead wood, so ought not to be so restricted by geological conditions as some ground-nesting species. Thus, this is probably an illustration of under-recording in the generally less productive central parts of the county. Hylaeus cornutus Curtis, 1831 Synonymy: Prosopis cornuta Morley (1936) cites only a single locality (Timworth). Today, although currently rated as Nationally Scarce, it is a little more common than this, known from a thin scatter of sites in the south and north-west of the county. Hylaeus dilatatus (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: This species was previously referred to as Hylaeus annularis. That name is now used for the species formerly called H. spilotus. There are few records for this bee, mainly scattered across Breckland. The only modern East Suffolk record is from Great Blakenham. Hylaeus hyalinatus Smith, 1842 Synonymy: Prosopis hyalinata This species was considered to be “somewhat rare” by Morley (1936). It is now known from a scatter of sites right across the county and is probably relatively widespread. Hylaeus pectoralis Foerster, 1871 Synonymy: Prosopis kriechbaumeri Being a wetland species, nesting in old ‘cigar galls’ within the stems of Common Reed Phragmites australis, this species is almost certainly under-recorded since this habitat is generally not good hunting ground for Hymenopterists. The only modern records for West Suffolk are from Lakenheath Fen RSPB reserve (with 1980s records for Cavenham and Icklingham noted in English Nature’s Invertebrate Site Register) and also at Market Weston Fen, in 2013. In the east it is known from Carlton Marshes, Walberswick, Minsmere and Aldeburgh.

Hylaeus pictipes Nylander, 1852 Synonymy: Prosopis pictipes This has always been a scarce bee in the county, with most UK records coming from the extreme south-east, south of the Thames. There are modern records for Elveden and Lakenheath in the north-west and Sutton, East Bergholt, Flatford and Holbrook in the south-east. Hylaeus signatus (Panzer, 1798) Synonymy: Prosopis signata A strong population exists in Breckland, where one of its favoured forage plants (Mignonette Reseda lutea) is plentiful, but it also occurs more sparingly across the county where Weld (Reseda luteola) is the favoured pollen source.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

ANDRENIDAE Andrena alfkenella Perkins, R.C.L., 1914 In Suffolk, seemingly restricted to Breckland, with recent records from Thetford Forest, the King’s Forest, Lakenheath and Red Lodge. This is one of the Andrena minutula group of small, closely similar species, which require careful examination to identify correctly. Andrena angustior (Kirby, 1802) There is a curious paucity of records for this species in East Anglia. There are only two confirmed modern records for Suffolk: a specimen taken by Arthur Watchman in 2000 from Bentley Long Wood in the south-east; a specimen from Tiger Hill LNR, recorded by the author during a 2016 “bioblitz” event. Andrena apicata Smith, F., 1847 Recorded in error by Morley. See “Other Species” at the end of this paper. Andrena argentata Smith, F., 1844 Morley did not record this species (but see “Other Species” at the end of this paper). It is seemingly restricted to a small part of the coast around Leiston, Aldeburgh, Minsmere and Dunwich. As a species of dry heathland, it is curious that it has not yet been recorded more widely. Andrena barbilabris (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Andrena albicrus A reasonably common species where there is dry, sandy ground. Andrena bicolor Fabricius, 1775 Synonymy: Andrena gwynana One of the commonest species across Suffolk – its distribution map illustrates the lack of recording in central Suffolk. It is also one of the earliest to emerge, with individuals often seen sunbathing on glossy vegetation in early March or even late February. Andrena bimaculata (Kirby, 1802) A reasonably frequent species in sandy locations but not recorded from the central zone, where ground conditions would generally not suit its nesting habits. Andrena chrysosceles (Kirby, 1802) This bee is unusual in being more tolerant of clay soil areas and this is borne out in its Suffolk distribution. There are relatively few records for the Brecks and Sandlings, but a strong spread of records in the heavier soils between these two areas. Andrena cineraria (Linnaeus, 1758) The national stronghold of this bee has long been south-western and western England and Wales, but in recent years it has seemingly started to spread further east. Morley considered it to be very rare, noting it occurring around Brandon in the far north-west. Recent records come from Thetford Forest and Purdis Heath, Ipswich. An increase in records is predicted. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Andrena chrysosceles

Andrena clarkella (Kirby, 1802) A very early flight time (from mid-February onwards) probably contributes to this being an especially under-recorded species. However, Morley (1936) described it as rare, so it may never have been an abundant species in Suffolk. Recent records are from West Stow, Minsmere, Walberswick, Capel St. Mary, Stutton and Purdis Heath, Ipswich. Andrena coitana (Kirby, 1802) Not recorded in Suffolk since 1923. This casts doubt on Morley’s (1936) diagnosis of “abundant everywhere” and such generalisations lead to a cautious interpretation of many of his distribution summaries. That said, a national decline may be evident. Known Suffolk records were from Bury St Edmunds, Monks Soham, Lowestoft and Southwold. Andrena denticulata (Kirby, 1802) Widespread records from Breckland and the Sandlings, favouring sandy soils as nesting habitat. Andrena dorsata (Kirby, 1802) One of the more common species in Suffolk, likely to be encountered in most parishes. Its current distribution shows the lack of recording in the centre of the county, allied to a less favourable geology for ground-nesting species. See map overleaf. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Andrena dorsata

Andrena ferox Smith, F., 1847 The Ipswich Museum collection contains a poor quality specimen under this name, from Brandon Staunch in the far-northwest. However, this specimen appears to have a mandible bearing a sub-apical tooth, whereas A. ferox males have no such tooth. As such, this record is dismissed. It would be an unlikely location for this species, which is generally associated with open broad-leaved woods. Andrena flavipes Panzer, 1799 Widespread records from across most of the county, other than parts of the very under-recorded central belt. Andrena florea Fabricius, 1793 As argued elsewhere (Knowles, 2015), it is thought that Morley’s records for this species were a misidentification. The first confirmed record came from Shotley Gate in 2015. Since then, it has been recorded from several sites in the far southeast of the county, indicating that it is establishing itself as a Suffolk species. Andrena fucata Smith, 1847 Morley’s (1936) comment that this species is “sufficiently common” does not expand upon the intended purpose against which this was measured. National data suggests a genuine paucity of records in East Anglia and there are only two modern records: Ladygate Wood near Haverhill and Knettishall Heath near the Norfolk border. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES Andrena fulva (Muller in Allioni, 1776) Records are thinly spread across most of the county.

Andrena fulvago (Christ, 1791) As described in Knowles (2012), this species has only recently been re-admitted to the Suffolk list, following an absence of over 200 years. Morley (1936) described it as “unusually scarce” but only offers William Kirby’s original 1799 observation at Barham, north of Ipswich, as a locality. It is currently known from three locations: Ipswich, Shotley Gate and Kessingland. This may represent a recent northwards expansion of its national distribution.

Andrena fuscipes (Kirby, 1802) A strict heathland species, with a good spread of records in both Breckland and the Sandlings. Andrena haemorrhoa (Fabricius, 1781) Synonymy: Andrena albicans A common species with records from throughout the county, with less of a geological influence. Andrena haemorrhoa

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Andrena hattorfiana (Fabricius, 1775) Our largest Andrena has its stronghold in Breckland, where its primary pollen source (Field Scabious Knautia arvensis) is abundant. A 1997 record from Ramsholt on the Deben Estuary is a significant departure from this, but may just represent a vagrant. Large stands of Field Scabious in the south-east would be worthy of closer attention. Andrena helvola (Linnaeus, 1758) Another “sufficiently common” species in Morley’s day is currently known from seven modern records: Haverhill, Gt Cornard and Great Green in West Suffolk; Weybread, Minsmere and Dunwich Heath in the east. Andrena humilis Imhoff, 1832 The current distribution is a curious disjointed one, with a few records from the far north-west, far north-east and the south. Andrena humilis

Andrena labialis (Kirby, 1802) Although described by Morley as locally common, there only two modern records, from Orford and Bawdsey on the southern coast. It is a species that may be declining nationally, so this drop in records for Suffolk may be a real phenomenon.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Andrena labiata Fabricius, 1781 Synonymy: Andrena cingulata Thinly scattered across most of the county. It is often seen foraging at flowers of Germander Speedwell (Veronica chamaedrys) and has been encountered several times in churchyards within the otherwise less species-rich central parts of the county. Andrena marginata Fabricius, 1776 Synonymy: Andrena cetii Modern records are restricted to Breckland, where it is fairly widespread in places where scabiouses grow. Two old records (1902 and 1904), from Huntingfield near Halesworth, suggest an established population there but its current fate is unknown. Andrena minutula (Kirby, 1802) One of the more common species in Suffolk, with records throughout. Andrena minutuloides Perkins, R.C.L., 1914 Not recorded by Morley, although described as a separate species during Morley’s period of activity. It is a species of chalk grassland and the Breckland records of Norfolk and Suffolk represent an isolated outlier of its distribution, which otherwise rarely goes north of the Thames. There are three modern records: Red Lodge, the King’s Forest and Elveden. Females can easily be confused with worn specimens of A. minutula. Andrena nana (Kirby, 1802) This species was described by Kirby on the basis of material from Barham in central Suffolk. Only five confirmed British records are known, with a 1923 specimen from Sudbury being the only other Suffolk record. Probably extinct in the UK. Andrena nigriceps (Kirby, 1802) A scarce species with a disjointed distribution: Breckland, thinly scattered; Sutton Common east of Woodbridge; Minsmere/Dunwich complex. Andrena nigroaenea (Kirby, 1802) One of the most common species in the county, found throughout. Andrena nigrospina Thomson, 1872 Synynomy: previously included within an aggregate with A. pilipes, the only name used by Morley. The sole confirmed Suffolk record comes from the King’s Forest in 2003. It is a difficult species-pair to separate. Andrena nitida (Muller, 1776) Synonymy: Known to Morley as A. nitida but for much of the interim period it was referred to as A. pubescens. Reasonably widespread across the county.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Andrena niveata Freisse, 1887 The only records come from Morley, who gives Tostock in 1900 and Brandon, 1899 -1913. Today, its British distribution is limited to a few records from south coast counties of England and is deemed to be extinct in Suffolk, if it ever truly had established populations. Andrena ovatula (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Andrena afzeliella Very thinly scattered in sandy areas, including Breckland, the environs of Ipswich and also Walberswick/Blackheath in the north-east.

Andrena pilipes Fabricius, 1781 Synonymy: some specimens under this name might be A. nigrospina. Morley (1936) states Brandon, Copdock, Barham, Dunwich, Brandeston and Easton cliffs, implying a very widespread if thin distribution. Modern records than can be attributed with some certainty to this species come from Lakenheath, Bawdsey and Hollesley. Andrena praecox (Scopoli, 1763) This is another very early species, active before many entomologists are at large, so it is probably highly under-recorded. Four modern records are from Thetford Forest (Wangford Warren), Hadleigh, Capel St Mary and Purdis Heath, Ipswich.

Andrena proxima (Kirby, 1802) At odds with many other mining bees, the majority of the (albeit few) records come from the central part of Suffolk: Haverhill and Clare in the far south-west; Wetherden, Mickfield, Horham, Mendham and Monk Soham in central Suffolk; Kessingland in the north-east. Many of these records have come from churchyards, which can be productive hunting grounds in the otherwise relatively poor central parts of the county. Andrena rosae Panzer, 1801 Synonymy: Morley is likely to have included records of Andrena scotica and A. trimmerana in this name. Only specimens of A. scotica appear under this name in his collection at Ipswich museum. The ever-changing taxonomic status of the spring (“Andrena eximia”) and summer (“Andrena rosae”) broods of this species, along with the lack of any recent records makes analysis of this species impossible. Current British records are restricted to Kent, Devon and Cornwall. Andrena scotica Perkins, R.C.L., 1916 Morley did not record this common species in Suffolk, but specimens appear in his collection under the name Andrena rosae - a clear misidentification. A. scotica occurs widely across the county. Andrena semilaevis Perez, 1903 Synonymy: Andrena saundersella This small bee, part of the Andrena minutula group, has records thinly spread across the whole county. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Andrena similis Smith, 1849 Morley lumps this species with three other, very similar species under the comment “All quite common kinds”. However, the only record in the whole of East Anglia within the National Biodiversity Network database is from West Stow, near Icklingham, in 2003, recorded by the late Neil Robinson. There is also a record for Knettishall Heath; Paul Lee 2015. This suggests that Morley was being rather evasive, to say the least. Andrena subopaca Nylander, 1848 Not recorded by Morley (confusing it with A. minutula?), this is quite a thinly widespread species across the county. Andrena synadelpha Perkins, 1914 Probably very thinly scattered over much of the county. Recent records are from Stoke by Nayland, Hadleigh, Playford, Tunstall, Lakenheath, Elveden and Ilketshall St Andrew. Andrena tarsata Nylander, 1848 News of this species appears to have eluded Morley, since he does not list it, despite being recorded by Tuck, near Bury St Edmunds, in 1897. Likely to be extinct in the county, with the UK population becoming scarcer in the south but stable in the north. It requires large stands of Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) as a pollen source. Andrena thoracica (Fabricius, 1775) A coastal species in Britain with relatively few inland localities; the only locality in West Suffolk is the disused railway line in Hadleigh. There are strong populations on coastal cliffs, such as Corton and Kessingland in the north and Thorpeness further south. It also occurs inland at quarries e.g. at Great Blakenham and Chillesford (an old crag sand pit). Andrena tibialis (Kirby, 1802) This is a species that favours nesting in light soils and consequently is largely known from scattered records in the Brecks and the Sandlings. One rather isolated population in Hadleigh is known. Andrena tridentata (Kirby, 1802) Probably extinct in the UK; Suffolk was one of only two confirmed counties for this species. Known from Ampton and Tuddenham, south of the Brecks, plus Copdock near Ipswich. Andrena trimmerana (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Morley treated this as a race of A. rosae. In Suffolk (as in Essex), this species is broadly confined to coastal districts; In Suffolk the main cluster of records is around Ipswich: Nacton, Piper’s Vale, Great Blakenham and Capel St Mary, plus Hadleigh. In the north-east there are records from Dunwich and St Michael South Elmham.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Andrena varians (Kirby, 1802) The only modern records were taken by Ivan Wright in 2006 on the cliffs at Kessingland. Morley dismissed it as one of the “sufficiently common” species, but it may well be declining throughout its range in lowland England. Andrena wilkella (Kirby, 1802) Well spread across Breckland, plus Dingle Marshes, Blaxhall and Tunstall near the coast. Panurgus banksianus (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Panurgus ursinus Well represented in the Sandlings north to Dunwich and also on the cliffs at Corton. It is probably quite widespread in the Brecks although there are currently few modern records. Panurgus calcaratus (Scopoli, 1763) A scarce species in Suffolk and one that Morley was seemingly not familiar with, citing only Kirby’s old (pre-1802?) record for Martlesham Heath. There are still only a handful of modern records, including Wangford Woods, Thetford; Stoke by Nayland, Ipswich, Bawdsey, Leiston and Walberswick. HALICTIDAE Halictus confusus Smith, 1853 Not recorded by Morley, this small bee can be difficult to separate from the much more common H. tumulorum. In Suffolk, it is seemingly restricted to Breckland, with confirmed records from Lakenheath, Elveden, Thetford, the King’s Forest and Cavenham. Halictus eurygnathus Bluethgen, 1931 Synonymy: Halictus quadricinctus Not seen in Suffolk since Kirby’s record from Little Blakenham over 200 years ago. This is a nationally endangered species, now known from only a handful of sites along the English Channel coast. Halictus rubicundus (Christ, 1791) Widely scattered on the lighter, sandier soils. Halictus tumulorum (Linnaeus, 1758) Widely scattered across the county, favouring lighter soils and with a strong population in the Brecks. Lasioglossum albipes (Fabricius, 1781) Synonymy: Halictus albipes Widespread in Breckland, but thinly scattered elsewhere. Care needs to be taken to separate it from the rather more common L. calceatum. Lasioglossum brevicorne Schenck, 1870 Not recorded by Morley. Strongly associated with light, sandy soils, with a widespread population in the Brecks; thinly scattered in the Sandlings.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Lasioglossum calceatum (Scopoli, 1763) Synonymy: Halictus cylindricus One of the more common and widespread of the mining bees in Suffolk, found throughout. Lasioglossum cupromicans (Perez, 1903) Despite being scarce but very thinly widespread in Norfolk, there appear to be no definite records for Suffolk, beyond an incomplete 1982 record on the Invertebrate Site Register for north of Santon Downham. This exact locality is probably in Norfolk.

Lasioglossum fratellum (Perez, 1903) Synonymy: Halictus freygessneri Only one modern record: a female at Brandon Park, Thetford Forest, in 2001. There are three older records, from Sudbury and the northern coastline. Lasioglossum fulvicorne (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus subfasciatus; Halictus fulvicornis Known from a handful of sites between Hadleigh and Ipswich, plus similarly few in Breckland and near Newmarket. Lasioglossum laeve (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus laevis Described new to science by Kirby, from single females taken at Barham and Nacton, the only British records. Most likely extinct as a British species. Lasioglossum laevigatum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus laevigatus A distinctly southern species in Britain, possibly towards the northern edge of its range in the Midlands and East Anglia. The only modern records come from Red Lodge/Herringswell and the Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forest in the west, plus Captains Wood, Sudbourne, noted by Paul Lee in 2006. Lasioglossum lativentre (Schenck, 1853) Synonymy: Halictus decipiens Thinly scattered in Breckland; also at Ickworth Park in 2003. Lasioglossum leucopus (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus leucopus Might be found across the county, but there are strong populations in Breckland and the Sandlings. Lasioglossum leucozonium (Schrank, 1781) Synonymy: Halictus leucozonius A common species on light, sandy soils across the county; might occur sparingly on clay.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Lasioglossum malachurum (Kirby, 1802) A species not known to Morley, its status as a Suffolk species may date to as recently as the late 1990s. Now widely spread records across the county, although with an emphasis towards the south. This is the result of a national spread northwards by this once scarce bee. Lasioglossum malachurum

Lasioglossum minutissimum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus minutissimus One of our smallest bees, quite widely found on the lighter soils across the county. Lasioglossum morio (Fabricius, 1793) Synonymy: Halictus morio Probably one of the more common and widespread species in Suffolk, found on a wide range of soil types. Lasioglossum nitidiusculum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus nitidiusculus This bee is in serious decline, nationally. Morley rather lavishly considered it â&#x20AC;&#x153;quite commonâ&#x20AC;?, but there are now only a few modern records: Kessingland, Bawdsey, Ipswich, Lakenheath, Worlingworth and Holbrook.

Lasioglossum parvulum (Schenck, 1853) Synonymy: Halictus minutus Quite widely encountered on lighter soils across Suffolk. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Lasioglossum pauperatum (BrullĂŠ, 1832) Synonymy: Halictus breviceps This is a nationally threatened bee, largely restricted to the extreme south and south-east. There were no Suffolk records since 1899 (Copdock) until it was recorded at Flatford Mill in the summer of 2017. Lasioglossum pauxillum (Schenck, 1853) Synonymy: Halictus pauxillus A species that is seemingly spreading from its stronghold in south-east England. Morley considered it rare, but it is now known from thinly widespread records across the south of the county, plus Henstead and Kessingland in the far northeast. Lasioglossum prasinum (Smith, 1848) Synonymy: Halictus prasinus Always a rare bee in Suffolk, the most recent record is from Leiston Common in 1971. Lasioglossum punctatissimum (Schenck, 1853) Synonymy: Halictus punctatissimus Probably quite widespread in Breckland and the Sandlings; also recorded from Shrubland Park north of Ipswich.

Lasioglossum puncticolle (Morawitz, 1872) Synonymy: Halictus puncticollis At the northern edge of its UK range in Suffolk, always rare; modern records from Kessingland, Orford, Bawdsey, Great Blakenham, Knettishall and Aspal Close, Mildenhall. Lasioglossum quadrinotatum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus quadrinotatus Rather generously described as abundant by Morley. Today, it appears reasonably widespread around Breckland, but in East Suffolk it is rare, with records from Ramsholt, Alton Water and Dunwich. Lasioglossum sexnotatum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus sexnotatus Suffolk appears to be the UK stronghold for this rare bee. Several recent records around Ipswich and Orford; it was recorded at Minsmere in 2017. In the northwest it is known from Elveden in Thetford Forest. Lasioglossum smeathmanellum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus smeathmanellus Recent records spread very thinly across most of the county. It is the rarest of the three small, metallic green Lasioglossum species to have been definitely recorded in Suffolk.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Lasioglossum villosulum (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus villosulus Relatively common in light, sandy soils but appears to avoid the central zone of heavier soils. Lasioglossum xanthopus (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Halictus xanthopus Always a rare species in Suffolk, there are modern records for Lakenheath and Kessingland. Lasioglossum zonulum (Smith, F., 1848) Synonymy: Halictus zonulus Always rare in Suffolk; the only modern record in from the Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forest in 2003. Care needs to be taken to separate this species from the similar, but quite widespread L. leucozonium. Sphecodes crassus Thomson, 1870 Synonymy: Sphecodes variegatus A very thin scattering of records. A difficult species, especially females, with some specimens difficult to name with certainty. Sphecodes ephippius (Linnaeus, 1767) Synonymy: Sphecodes similis A relatively common and widespread species across the county. Sphecodes ferruginatus von Hagens, 1882 Not recorded in Suffolk since 1923. A scarce and declining species, nationally. Sphecodes geoffrellus (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Sphecodes affinis A relatively well recorded species on the lighter, sandy soils. A cleptoparasite on several small Halictine bees. Sphecodes gibbus (Linnaeus, 1758) A rather scarce cleptoparasite, found in Breckland and also the central coast (Walberswick south to Tunstall). Much more restricted than its host (Halictus rubicundus). Sphecodes longulus von Hagens, 1882 A handful of modern records, split between the coastal heaths, including Flatford, and the Brecks. Sphecodes miniatus von Hagens, 1882 Synonymy: Sphecodes dimidiatus This is another one of the small Sphecodes species where females are variable and often difficult to determine with any confidence. There is a very thin scatter of records across the county.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Sphecodes monilicornis (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Sphecodes subquadratus Sufficiently widespread to be encountered across the county, although likely to be more prevalent in sandy areas where its hosts nest. Sphecodes niger von Hagens, 1874 This is a nationally rare bee, although one that appears to be increasing its range. It was not noted by Morley and may genuinely have been absent in his time. The oldest Suffolk record is from 1976 at Levington, noted by Mike Archer, but it then went unrecorded until 2001, in Tunstall Forest. A handful of other records encompass most of the county: Sotterley Park in the north-east; Elveden in Breckland; Ickworth; Hadleigh and west of Ipswich in the south of the county. Sphecodes pellucidus Smith, F., 1845 Synonymy: Sphecodes pilifrons Well represented in Breckland and the costal heaths, where its hosts proliferate. Sphecodes puncticeps Thomson, 1870 A thin scattering of records across much of the county. Sphecodes reticulatus Thomson, 1870 Another species not recorded by Morley. It is currently known from a thin scatter of records in both Breckland and along the coastal zone, plus Great Blakenham. Sphecodes rubicundus von Hagens, 1875 Only a handful of modern records, scattered across the county. Sphecodes spinulosus von Hagens, 1875 A nationally rare species largely restricted to the extreme south of Britain. The sole Suffolk record is from RAF Lakenheath in 1992 and is the most northerly site in the UK for this species. Its host, Lasioglossum xanthopus, is almost as rare. MELITTIDAE Dasypoda hirtipes (Fabricius, 1793) Reasonably frequently encountered on sandy soils, but avoids the central parts of Suffolk where soils are heavier. The lighter soils along the Gipping valley are picked out in the current distribution map (overleaf). Macropis europaea Warncke, 1973 Not noted by Morley, although it may have gone undetected since, as a wetland specialist, it resides in a habitat not generally attractive to Hymenopterists. There are recent records from Carlton Marshes, Southwold, Lakenheath Fen, Cavenham, Lackford Lakes, all sites where it will be foraging at Yellow Loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris). In 2014, it was recorded, as a probable vagrant, in the authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden in Capel St Mary, where it was visiting the garden plant Dotted Loosestrife (Lysimachia punctata).

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Dasypoda hirtipes

Melitta haemorrhoidalis (Fabricius, 1775) Synonymy: Cilissa haemorrhoidalis Morley lists but two localities: Barham and Felixstowe, noting it had not been recorded since 1896. It is now known from a handful of sites in Breckland and has also been recorded at Purdis Heath, Ipswich (Ipswich Golf Club). Melitta leporina (Panzer, 1779) Known from a handful of sites in Breckland and, in 2001, was recorded from waste ground at Ipswich. Melitta tricincta Kirby, 1802 Known from only a small handful of site in Breckland, recorded between 1993 and 2007. MEGACHILIDAE Anthidium manicatum (Linnaeus, 1758) Occurs as a thin scatter of records across the sandy soils of Suffolk. Chelostoma campanularum (Kirby, 1802) One of the species that might be especially lured into gardens, if Campanula flowers abound. This accounts for scattered records across the south and east of the county (e.g. Hadleigh, Monks Eleigh, Bedfield and Yoxford). Also found on wild Harebell in the Brecks and Purdis Heath area, Ipswich. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Chelostoma florisomne (Linnaeus, 1758) This species has a curious distribution: a handful of records clustered between Clare, Bury St Edmunds, Stowmarket, Ipswich, Huntingfield and Cookley. Chelostoma florisomne

Coelioxys conoidea (Illiger, 1806) Synonymy: Coelioxys vectis A cleptoparasite of Megachile maritima, which is not quite so strictly tied to the coast as its name suggests. Coelioxys conoidea has a strong population in Breckland, with a few records dotted through the coastal heaths from Ipswich to Lowestoft. Coelioxys elongata Lepeletier, 1841 There are currently very few records, mainly in Breckland, despite its primary host (Megachile willughbiella) being rather more common. It has recently been recorded from Ipswich. Coelioxys inermis (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Coelioxys acuminata A handful of records from the Brecks; in the east it has been found at Monk Soham, Orford, Ipswich, Walberswick and Kessingland.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Coelioxys quadridentata (Linnaeus, 1758) Nationally, a rare and seriously threatened species. It has not been recorded in Suffolk since before 1936. Coelioxys rufescens Lepeletier & Serville, 1815 Always rather rare in Suffolk, the only modern records are from Center Parcs holiday village in Elveden, Thetford Forest and the King’s Forest. Heriades truncorum (Linnaeus, 1758) Not known from Suffolk during Morley’s time, this species has undergone a dramatic range expansion from the extreme south-east of England over the last 20 years. There are now a handful of scattered locations, still mainly in the south of the county, and it is set to become ever more widespread. Hoplitis claviventris (Thomson, 1872) Synonymy: Morley refers to this species as Osmia leucomelana, a name by which it was known until 1970. Recorded from a handful of sites from Breckland. Hoplitis leucomelana (Kirby, 1802) Morley’s use of this name (as Osmia leucomelana) was a misidentification of Hoplitis claviventris. The sole British specimen, of doubtful origin in itself is a female collected by Kirby from near Coddenham, prior to 1802. Hoplitis spinulosa – see Osmia spinulosa. Megachile centuncularis (Linnaeus, 1758) Thinly scattered across the county, reflecting the recording bias towards Breckland and the coastal Sandlings area, but might be found more widely. Megachile circumcincta (Kirby, 1802) An uncommon species nationally, which has undergone a marked decline in southern England. The sole modern record for Suffolk comes from Pashford Poors Fen, in 1998. Morley recorded it from Redgrave prior to 1936.

Megachile leachella Curtis, 1828 Synonymy: Known to Morley as M. argentata. After then, it was referred to as M. leachella and, briefly, M. dorsalis Perez, before being returned to M. leachella. A largely coastal species in the UK, although Breckland is one of the few exceptions, where it is quite frequently encountered. Also recorded on coastal sand dunes, cliffs and heaths. Megachile ligniseca (Kirby, 1802) Thinly scattered across the lighter, sandier soils of the county, although this is likely to reflect recording bias. As a species which nests in burrows in dead wood, there is no reason why it should not be found anywhere.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Megachile maritima (Kirby, 1802) Nationally, a species of coastal heaths and dunes but also from a number of heathland localities, such as Breckland. Also occurs on the Suffolk coast. Megachile maritima

Megachile versicolor Smith, F., 1844 As with M. ligniseca, this species ought to occur across the county, but current records are restricted to the sandy soils of the coast and the north-west, where it is not uncommon in either area.

Megachile willughbiella (Kirby, 1802) Reasonably frequently recorded in Breckland, but in East Suffolk currently only known from a very thin scatter of records from Nayland to Southwold. Osmia aurulenta (Panzer, 1799) The only reported record for Suffolk is Kirby’s capture from Henley north of Ipswich, prior to 1802. Osmia bicolor (Schrank, 1781) Morley’s statement that this species had been “not noticed here since 1899” is, perhaps, a strong indication that he did not travel to the Brecks much! This species is quite common on the chalkier parts of the north-west and has also been recorded from Lackford Lakes – former sand and gravel pits. It seems unlikely that this was not also the case during Morley’s time. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Osmia bicornis (Linnaeus, 1758) Synonymy: Osmia rufa Recorded from most parts of the county; a relatively common species. As an â&#x20AC;&#x153;aerial nesterâ&#x20AC;?, often found in old walls, its distribution is not affected by geological changes. Until very recently, this species was known as Osmia rufa, but this has now given way to a senior synonym. Osmia bicornis

Osmia caerulescens (Linnaeus, 1758) Thinly scattered records across most of the county; curiously largely unrecorded from the coastal Sandlings, although known from Purdis Heath, east of Ipswich and near Southwold. Osmia leaiana (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Osmia fulviventris Likely to be found in any part of the county. Current records are well spread throughout, if rather thinly scattered. Osmia pilicornis Smith, F., 1846 Not recorded in Suffolk since before 1936, this nationally scarce bee is largely restricted to the extreme south-east counties of England. Ipswich Museum has specimens dated 1935 from Monks Park Wood near Felsham. Other specimens come from Copdock and Brantham.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Osmia spinulosa (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Known to Morley under this name, but for most of the recent decades it has been called Hoplitis spinulosa. There is a strong population across Breckland, with a rather sparse scattering of records from elsewhere across the county. Osmia rufa – see Osmia bicornis. Osmia xanthomelana (Kirby, 1802) Morley quotes Kirby as saying he took this species once at Somersham to the west of Ipswich in 1798. In his 1936 review, Morley then states “Kirby’s record is now confirmed in Monks-park [assumed to be the part of Bradfield Woods near Felsham] and Bentley Woods”. However, this species is currently a bee of open, flower-rich cliffs and other open places, so it is likely that Morley’s observations are mis-identifications of Osmia pilicornis. This looks very similar to O. xanthomelana and the collection at Ipswich Museum includes specimens of O. pilicornis from Monks Park Wood. Osmia xanthomelana is a species in danger of extinction within the UK. Stelis breviuscula (Nylander, 1848) This bee was long-held to be an extreme rarity nationally, being a cleptoparasite of the bee Heriades truncorum, which used to be restricted to a few south coast counties. As its host has recently expanded its range northwards, there are signs that this bee is following it. It was recorded for the first time in Suffolk at Flatford Mill by Becky Cartwright, in 2016. Stelis ornatula (Klug, 1807) Synonymy: Stelis octomaculata The only Suffolk records come from Brandon in the far north-west (Morley observations in 1899 and in 1926-27), still present in 1992; and the King’s Forest in 2010. Stelis phaeoptera (Kirby, 1802) Morley cites Barham, Brandon, Tostock and Bungay. The only modern records are from Barnhamcross Common in 2009 and Reydon, near Southwold, where it was seen by Alan Cornish in 2016. Stelis punctulatissima (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Stelis aterrima Always very rare in Suffolk (rare and declining nationally), the only modern records come from Red Lodge in 2011 and Reydon, near Southwold, in 2017. APIDAE Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 Synonymy: Apis mellifica Nearly all encounters will be domesticated hive bees, but feral colonies sometimes form in hollow trees and other cavities.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Anthophora bimaculata (Panzer, 1798) Synonymy: Saropoda bimaculata Seemingly always rare in Suffolk, Morley could not add to Kirby’s record from Woodbridge. Currently known from a few of sites in the south-east (e.g. Landguard Point, Shotley, Sutton, Ipswich and Hadleigh) and a couple of sites in Breckland. Anthophora furcata (Panzer, 1798) Thinly scattered on the lighter, sandy soils. Anthophora plumipes (Pallas, 1772) Synonymy: Anthophora pilipes A relatively common and widespread bee, especially in gardens and churchyards with abundant spring flowers, irrespective of geology. Anthophora plumipes

Anthophora quadrimaculata (Panzer, 1798) Nationally, there are very few records away from the south coast counties and Morley did not record this species. There are only a few modern records: Chillesford, Lackford, Ipswich and Lakenheath. Anthophora retusa (Linnaeus, 1758) Described by Morley (1936) as being “of frequent occurrence” although “exceedingly rare” in 1899. There are no recent records and this species has declined drastically across its UK range in recent years.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Epeolus cruciger (Panzer, 1799) Synonymy: Epeolus rufipes A cleptoparasite of heathland Colletes species; frequent in the Brecks and Sandlings. Epeolus variegatus (Linnaeus, 1758) Synonymy: Epeolus productus A cleptoparasite of heathland Colletes species; frequent in the Brecks and Sandlings, with a few additional records from Hadleigh, Belstead and Holbrook. Eucera longicornis (Linnaeus, 1758) There are no modern records for this bee, which Morley prophetically described as “apparently dying out”, reflecting a dramatic national reduction in the number of known sites. Melecta albifrons (Forster, 1771) Synonymy: Melecta armata. Thinly scattered records across most of the county, but not recorded from Breckland where its host, Anthophora plumipes, is also absent. Melecta luctuosa (Scopoli, 1770) The last confirmed record of this species in the UK is from 1912 (Falk, 2015). However, Morley states that a female was taken at a gravel pit in Brandeston on 3rd May 1922. There are no specimens in the Ipswich Museum collection, so this observation must remain doubtful, unless a specimen comes to light. Nomada argentata Herrich-Schaeffer, 1839 Not recorded by Morley; there are currently a very few records from Breckland. Nomada baccata Smith, F., 1844 Another species not recorded by Morley. Its current Suffolk sites are Minsmere and Dunwich Heath. Nomada fabriciana (Linnaeus, 1767) Widely distributed across all soil types.

Nomada ferruginata (Linnaeus, 1767) Synonymy: Nomada lateralis. The name ferruginata has been applied (as a misidentification) to what is known as Nomada integra, thus making interpretation of old observations difficult. Always a rare species in Suffolk. Morley described it as “not uncommon” around Brandon. The Ipswich Museum collection includes specimens from Stuston (1922) and Sudbury. The only other modern record is from Purdis Heath in 2014. Nomada flava Panzer, 1798 Synonymy: this species was, along with N. panzeri, misidentified under the name N. ruficornis. One of the more common and widespread of the Nomada species, on all geological formations. It is debatable as to whether or not males of this species can be reliably separated from those of N. panzeri. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Nomada flavoguttata (Kirby, 1802) A reasonably widespread species, found with varying ease, across much of the county. The distribution map does not reflect any obvious geological affinities. Nomada flavoguttata

Nomada flavopicta (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Nomada jacobaeae Known from a handful of records in Breckland, where its main hosts (Melitta spp.) are found.

Nomada fucata Panzer, 1798 This species has undergone a dramatic range expansion nationally. Morley noted that it had not been seen since 1799, but there are now numerous records along the coastal zone. It remains scarce in Breckland, which is still at the edge of its range in the UK. Nomada fulvicornis Fabricius, 1793 Synonymy: Nomada lineola Reasonably frequent in Breckland and the Sandlings, plus Wortham Ling in the Waveney valley and Hadleigh in the south. Nomada goodeniana (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Nomada alternata, N. succincta A common and widespread species, with records across the county.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES

Nomada guttulata Schenck, 1861 For many years, Morley’s record for Bentley Woods, south of Ipswich, remained the only Suffolk record. The Ipswich Museum collection has a specimen dated 17/5/1897. Then, in 2011, Geoff Nobes took a specimen in Thetford Warren, in Breckland. Nomada hirtipes Perez, 1884 Synonymy: Nomada bucephalae Morley claims a single record, from Bentley Woods, south of Ipswich in 1935. Its host, Andrena bucephala, has never been recorded from East Anglia (nor even claimed by Morley, himself) so this record is doubtful. Nomada integra Brullé, 1832 Synonymy: Nomada ferruginata misidentification. This confusion makes interpretation of old records hazardous. Morley’s record, from Stuston in 1922 may be based on a specimen in Ipswich Museum, which has been determined as N. ferruginata. The only modern record dates from 1987, from Santon Downham, seen by Colin Plant, although the taxonomic status of this record may be uncertain. Nomada lathburiana (Kirby, 1802) This species is making a come-back. Morley knew of no records other than earlier citations by Kirby and Lathbury. It was recorded by the author at Knettishall Heath in 2008 and at Tiger Hill, Assington, in 2016. Its host, Andrena cineraria, is also reestablishing itself so both species are likely to occur more widely in the future. Nomada leucophthalma (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Nomada borealis A rather scarce species. A few records for the north-west, including Cavenham Heath and West Stow; in the east a few coastal localities between Aldringham, Beccles and Kessingland. Nomada marshamella (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: confused by early workers under the name N. alternata (with N. goodeniana). A relatively common species, with records spread across the whole county. Nomada panzeri Lepeletier, 1841 Synonymy: formerly misidentified as Nomada ruficornis. A widely yet sparsely distributed species that might be encountered anywhere its hosts (various species of Andrena) are to be found. Nomada ruficornis (Linnaeus, 1758) Synonymy: Nomada bifida. Morley (no doubt using Saunders, 1896) misidentified both N. flava and N. panzeri under this name. It occurs as a thin scatter of records across much of the county, though curiously largely absent from the south. (See map overleaf).

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

Nomada ruficornis

Nomada rufipes Fabricius, 1793 Synonymy: Nomada solidaginis Strictly tied to sandy soils in the north-west and coastal areas, but readily found in these locations. Nomada sexfasciata Panzer, 1799 This has always been a nationally rare species, currently known from one site in the south-west of England (Devon). Morley had only one reference: a female near Copdock, observed by J.H. Hocking, along with its host bee Eucera longicornis. Nomada sheppardana (Kirby, 1802) Synonymy: Nomada furva Described by Morley as being “of frequent occurrence”, but this is not reflected in national datasets, where it is a rare species in East Anglia, so misidentification is possible. The only modern records come from Barton Mills in 1951 and King’s Forest (recorded by James McGill in 2012). The author took a specimen in 2008 from a Breckland site in Norfolk, so this species may be more widely spread here than these few records suggest. Nomada signata Jurine, 1807 A rare species, despite the relative abundance of its host (Andrena fulva) and not recorded by Morley. Modern records are from Elveden, Brandon, Knettishall Heath, Ipswich, Boyton and Blaxhall. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

SUFFOLK SOLITARY BEES Nomada striata Fabricius, 1793 Synonymy: Nomada ochrostoma Only two modern records: Thetford Forest and West Stow, Kings Forest in 2011.

Ceratina cyanea (Kirby, 1802) Always a rare species in Suffolk, there is only one modern record: Needham Market in 1996, not far from where Morley had previously recorded it at Shrubland Park. Xylocopa violacea (Linnaeus, 1758) Photographs of occasional vagrants to the UK are assumed to be violacea, although other species exist on the continent. Recorded at Great Barton in 2008 and Ipswich, 1987. Other Species Morley (1936) refers to “Andrena sericans, Perk. – Dunwich in September 1928 (Blair).” As yet, I have been unable to find any other reference to such a species. One might hypothesise that the sole locality and late time of year points to A. argentata – a species that Morley does not otherwise mention. In old works, A. barbilabris was referred to as A. sericea (Christ, 1791), which has a vaguley similar form to the word “sericans”. A. barbilabris and A. argentata are the sole representatives of sub-genus Leucandrena in this country, and the two species bear a passing similarity. Morley also refers to Andrena apicata in his review, citing a male at willow catkins in Parham Wood in 1922. The two specimens listed under this species name in Ipswich Museum are incorrect determinations, being Andrena praecox and A. synadelpha. A. praecox forages on willow pollen, so this may be the source of this Parham Wood record. A. apicata would not, in any case, be expected in the county, it having an Atlantic distribution, from Kent to Cornwall, throughout Wales and on the Lancashire coast. This species is therefore removed from the county checklist. References Falk, S. (2015). Field Guide to the Bees of Great Britain and Ireland. British Wildlife Publishing/Bloomsbury Publishing, London. Knowles, A. P. (2011). The Bumblebees of Suffolk. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 47: 19–41. Knowles, A. P. (2012). Hymenoptera Recorder’s Report 2012. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 48: 88–92. Knowles, A. P. (2015). Andrena florea Fabricius, 1793 new to Suffolk. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 51: 55–56. Morley, C. (1899). The Hymenoptera of Suffolk. J. H. Keys, Plymouth. Online at https:// issuu.com/suffolknaturalistssociety/docs/hymenoptera_of_suffolk Morley, C. (1936). The Hymenoptera of Suffolk, portio secunda. Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 3(2): 132–162. – online at https://issuu.com/suffolknaturalistssociety/docs/ tsns3_2_e Saunders, E. (1896). The Hymenoptera Aculeata of the British Islands. L. Reeve & Co. London. Adrian Knowles, Jessups Cottage, London Road, Capel St Mary, Suffolk, IP9 2JR Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)

Suffolk Natural History, Vol. 53

COVER ILLUSTRATION Ivy Bee Colletes hederae (p. 2) (Photo: Ben Heather). Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 53 (2017)