The guide contains a quick identification chart, photographs of both sexes of all 22 known species, information on life history and conservation, a cross-referencing system with symbols to help more accurate field identification and details on how to attract bumblebees to your garden.

Key changes in the second edition: a new species account for the soon-to-be-reintroduced Bombus subterraneus; new, more accurate distribution maps; updated Conservation Action section; revised Quick Identification Chart.