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bee Ashy Mining Bees

Identify It >   Invertebrates Section >   Ashy Mining Bees >

Scientific name:  Andrena cineraria

Size:  Up to 15mm

Distribution:  Found in most parts of the UK.  Less frequently in northern Scotland

Months seen:  April to June

Habitat:  Meadows, parks, gardens and orchards

Food:  Nectar and pollen

Special features:  Ashy Mining Bees are mostly black in colour with two bands of white hair at the front and back of the thorax, and a tuft of white hair at the front of the head.  They are noticable in the spring hovering just above the ground.

The underground nests of Ashy Mining Bees are frequently parasited by Nomad Bees.

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