Solitary Bee

Andrena fulva (Solitary Mining Bee)

Appearance

Image of Solitary Bee, example Mining Bee (Andrena fulva) | Rentokil Pest Control UK
  • Often look similar to the honey bee.

Lifecycle

  • Colony size - small nests which are individually tended by a female.
  • Preferred nest sites - often in sandy soil, sometimes in soft cement and mortar between bricks.
  • Although solitary, nests are often found near each other in villages in a suitable nesting area.
  • Nest construction - various materials. Usually a new nest each year.

Habits

  • Swarming - does not swarm.
  • Overwintering - usually in the pupal stage within the nest.
  • Food preferences - honey and pollen.
  • Rarely stings and is not aggressive.