Teddy-bear Bee
Scientific Name: Amegilla (Asaropoda) bombiformis
Size: Total Length 15 mm
What does it look like?
Stocky, golden-yellow bee, with 6 (female) or 7 (male) variable-width, blackish, hairless cross-bands on the abdomen. Remainder of body is covered in short hairs, giving it a ‘furry’ appearance.
Where is it found?
It occurs mainly in south-eastern Australia, from south-eastern Qld, to southern Vic
What are its habitats & habits?
Occurs in various habitats where flowering plants grow. Flight rapid and jerky, often hovering periodically and settling briefly on flowers to collect pollen; wings make a low-pitched humming sound as it flies. Solitary bee, although several may occupy the same area, excavating a nest in the ground (typically in an earthen bank) that contains several watertight cells. Single egg is laid in each cell, which is provided with a supply of pollen to feed the larva after hatching, before cell is sealed to protect it.
This species features in my book A Naturalist’s Guide to the Insects of Australia
