Culmination

from Humble by Mark Ferguson

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about

Sounds captured just outside a great yellow bumblebee nest, in the machair grasslands of South Uist, Scotland.

Two miniature microphones were gently placed outside the nest entrance using a utility grabber; in the minutes that followed, at least seven males appeared, frantically jostling for a mating opportunity with an emerging queen. This activity continued until the bumblebees took shelter from heavy wind and rain.

Based on extensive checks with experts, research institutions and wildlife sound libraries, this was likely the first ever sound recording of B. distinguendus mating activity to be made anywhere in the world.

Species: B. distinguendus

August 17, 2019 at 11:08. Askernish, South Uist, Scotland. Sunny; strong, gusting wind.


Important note:

This recording was made possible by the presence of surrounding grass and other vegetation, which allowed careful placement of unobtrusive microphones over a thirty-minute period. In any other circumstances, it would not have been attempted. All field observations indicated that the bees were in no way disturbed by the microphone placement, and went about their business unhindered.

Bumblebee nests should always be observed from a sensible distance. Although bumblebees are typically very docile, approaching a nest too closely may trigger defensive behaviour.

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from Humble, released July 11, 2020

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Mark Ferguson UK

Mark Ferguson is a UK-based wildlife sound recordist and sound artist.

His award-winning work explores the unique and intricate sonic detail of the natural world, with an emphasis on species conservation.

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