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Insect identification services for AES members

A photograph of a bumblebee, but what species is it?

Most of us know this is a bumblebee, but what species is it?

The AES tries to help its members to identify insects they have found. This can be achieved via the Advisory Panel.

Advisory panel

AES council members specialise in different insect groups and are prepared to advise members within their speciality. They will try to identify small numbers of British specimens where indicated. Large collections should be taken to a museum for identification against collections held by the museum.

Please note the following points:

State your AES membership number when making an enquiry.
Always enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope for the reply.
If specimens are to be returned, enclose sufficient stamps to cover the cost of postage and packaging.
Try to send dead material during the winter months, when the Adviser may be less busy.
Provide as much information as is known, such as the locality, food plant, date, time, mode of capture, etc. Localities will be treated as confidential if requested.

Specimens for identification can be sent to our normal postal address. Please remember that this is a service for members only, non-members should use this identification service.

Postal address

The Amateur Entomologists' Society,
PO Box 8774,
London,
SW7 5ZG

Before sending your specimens please contact us and well will advise you on how best to send your specimens for identification.

New advisers on appropriate subjects are always welcomed.