Blue Banded Bee
Scientific Name: Amegilla spp.
Size: Total Length 15 mm
What does it look like?
Adults have a black abdomen with bright metallic blue hairy bands; remainder of body covered in gold-and-white, furry hair, including the tops of the legs. The eyes are large and greenish-yellow. The male is distinguished from the female by the extra abdominal band and the lack of black on the clypeus (part of face near mandibles). The wings are smokey-brown and short.
Where is it found?
Tropical and subtropical regions of Australia. Reported from parts of South-east Asia.
What are its habitats & habits?
Lives in forests, woodland and heaths, including urban areas. Females inhabit burrows in soil, typically in banks of rivers or streams, or in loose joints in brick walls, and often in close association with others. Obtains pollen from flowers by ‘buzz’ pollination, using sonic vibrations to release pollen. Capable of stinging but less aggressive than other bees.
This species features in my book A Naturalist’s Guide to the Insects of Australia
