A tiny zebra-striped bee, usually found along England’s south and east coasts, has made an unexpected journey to the West Country.
The rare sea aster mining bee has been spotted at Steart Marshes in Somerset by naturalist Nigel Phillips, who said the find “was a huge surprise”.
The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust said saltmarsh restoration work at the nature reserve had helped create the perfect home for the newcomer.
The charity says the discovery shows how rare species and wildlife can thrive by restoring coastal habitats.
