Hairy-legged Mining Bee at RSPB Pulborough Brooks

Welcome to my wildlife photography journal! A visit to RSPB Pulborough Brooks on 25th July 2026 provided an opportunity to spend some time photographing one of the smaller and often overlooked inhabitants of the reserve — a Hairy-legged Mining Bee.

These small solitary bees can be easy to miss when exploring the reserve, but taking the time to slow down and look closely reveals just how fascinating they are. Their distinctive hairy legs and compact bodies make them an interesting subject for wildlife photography, particularly when they are busy moving between flowers.

Photographing smaller insects like this is a reminder that wildlife photography isn't always about finding the largest or most obvious species. Some of the most rewarding encounters can come from simply stopping, looking closely, and appreciating the smaller creatures that share these habitats.

This was another enjoyable encounter at Pulborough Brooks and a chance to photograph one of the many fascinating species that can so easily go unnoticed. It is these smaller moments that add another dimension to a day spent exploring the reserve.

Thanks for reading! Be sure to explore my other wildlife adventures and photography from RSPB Pulborough Brooks and beyond. Every visit brings something new, and I look forward to sharing more moments from the field soon.