Andrena fulva – This is a female with her thick gingery coat. I find these very skittish and they don’t like you getting too close to them. Slow and patient gets you there in the end. Double-click to enlarge image.
© Peter Hillman ♦ 14th April 2020 ♦ Rear garden, Staffordshire ♦ Nikon D7200
The female is unmistakable with her bright fox-red coat. Size 10 to 13mm.
It can be seen coming and going to its nesting sites in the earth or in lawns where the female throws up little mounds of earth around her entrance. There maybe many mounds in close proximity, each one the entrance to a single, solitary bee’s nest. Excellent and essential pollinator. Feeds on nectar and pollen.
Seen April to June, and found in many habitats, including gardens. Widespread and common.
April 2013, rear garden, Staffordshire. © Pete Hillman 2013.
Nature Journeys 