Mining Bee, Andrena spp.
One of the largest groups of solitary bees, it is believed to consist of over 1,300 known species.
In general, they seem to prefer to build nests in sandy soil. Evidence of them may be seen if you
come across little mounds of earth in lawns, borders, or even in pots, resembling worm casts.
Nests will often consist of one small, main tunnel, with perhaps 5 or so branches, each
containing an egg cell. The tunnel will usually be about 20cms – 40cms deep, and the entrance
is about the size of a 10p coin. The nests will not cause any damage in soil or in gardens, and
indeed, they should be welcomed.
Adults emerge from hibernation in Spring, having hibernated through the winter. After mating,
the female seeks a place to make a nest. Like the other female solitary bees, she sets about
making egg cells: in each one she lays an egg and provides both pollen and nectar on which
the individual larva can feed.
Although solitary, females do sometimes construct nests close to each other, and may be
re-occupied year after year if undisturbed.
Habitat: Woodland, gardens and orchards
Development: Complete metamorphosis
Food: Herbivore
Flight Period: All summer
Description: Yellow, orange or white on thorax. Black abdomens
without any colored hairs.
Length: 10-15mm
The bee's basic nutritional requirements are similar to those of humans; they need proteins, carbohydrates,
minerals, fats/lipids, vitamins, and water. Learn More!
Take this quick quiz and see how much you know about Bumble Bees—our favorite essential pollinators
working around the world. This quiz is intended for fun, in a random-facts-can-be-cool kind of way.
Wild bees need our help. Many populations are declining due to habitat loss, disease and pesticide poisoning.
Each of us can create habitat to support local bee populations.