The forgotten sand bee. A follow up on the status of the golden sand bee Andrena marginata in municipality of Mark, a decade later

Sammanfattning: Over a decade ago, a conservation project aimed at preserving the endangered golden sand bee (Andrena marginata) populations in the Storån valley of the municipality of Marks was initiated. The species, red-listed in Sweden as well as in many other European country, specializes in pollen from Devil's bit. However, due to a limited financial period of three years, the current status of the sites remained unknown. This follow-up study addresses the knowledge gap, aligning with the recognized importance of ongoing assessments for threatened species conservation. Objectives encompassed: (1) investigating the current number of the golden sand bee and the abundance of Devil´s bit in the area, (2) assessing the sites' present status, (3) determining the necessity for new conservation measures, and (4) leveraging the study for public awareness and support conservation. The method utilized inventory of the bees was a "no-kill" using a sweeping net or by survey walks. Management measures for habitats of the golden sand bees were found in existing literature. Inventory results revealed a correlation between Devil's bit abundance and observed golden sand bee numbers. Overgrowth by Bushgrass emerged as a predominant threat, primarily attributed to weak disturbances, and at one site competition with the honey bee was especially pronounced. The overarching conclusion underscores that consistent, suitable management is crucial for site and population sustainability, whereas neglect or excessive changes jeopardize their viability. The study has proactively communicated inventory results, identified threats, and proposed actions to landowners, leasers, and the Marks municipality, with ongoing supportive engagement. Observed species has been reported to the Swedish Species Information Center (Artportalen). Encouragingly, the study has garnered local media attention, with an article in Markposten highlighting how wild bees, including the golden sand bee, can be preserved.