Another Sight of the Violet Carpenter Bee.

On my trips to the Greek Islands I sometimes have been lucky enough to see the Violet Carpenter Bee.It is mainly found in southern Europe and the queen in particular is unmistakable being perhaps one of the largest bee species.

Nomads Out & About..

At this time of the year Nomad bees are about,and this one was seen in my garden yesterday.It is considered to be Nomad flava and is widespread,particularly in southern England.More information on this species can be found here.

First Bumblebee Sighting of the year.

We are now enjoying  a few days of  mild and settled weather and spring it seems is just around the corner.Therefore I was pleased to see my first bumblebee of the year,a Buff-tailed Bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) busily buzzing  in and out of our garden hellebores this morning.

Nomada fucata (Painted Nomad Bee)

Nomada fucata is now widespread in southern England although it was once confined to the Dorset coast.Since the 1970's however this parasitic bee has spread its range to cover the area where its host Andrena flavipes, the Yellow-legged Mining Bee is found. This area covers all of southern England as far north as the Midlands, and south Wales. 

A Grey-patch on the Bluebells.

This female Grey-patched Mining Bee Andrena nitida, was seen today exploring our Bluebells.From late March to mid- July this species is widespread in southern England although peak numbers tend to be in the spring.There are about 65 species of Andrena in Britain and all nest in the soil.

Hairy-foots in the Garden.

At this time of the year the Barberry bush is a riot of colour and a firm favourite with bees.Today one of the many visitors to its abundant flowers was a female Hairy-footed Flower Bee Anthophora plumipes. This species is a common sight in the south of England and can readily be seen in our gardens. Hairy-footed flower bees often nest in the soft mortar of walls and sometimes in soil.
The females are black and resemble small bumblebees, with orange or yellow hairs on their hind legs.The males are rusty brown in colour and have long hairs on their legs and feet.These features can be seen below.

Sun Shines and Another Springtime Bee.

A look at the Hairy-footed Flower Bee Anthophora plumipes today as the sun came out for the first time in days.This male was seen in my garden feeding on the perennial wallflower 'bowles mauve'.