Ground-nesting
Guides
Agapostemon
Striped Sweat Bees, Metallic Green Sweat Bees
Agapostemon is a genus of sweat bees (Halictidae) comprising approximately 42 species distributed across the Western Hemisphere from Canada to Argentina. Most species exhibit metallic green or blue coloration, particularly on the head and thorax. Unlike many other sweat bees in the family, Agapostemon species are not attracted to human sweat. The genus includes both solitary and communal species, with all species nesting in the ground. Some species, such as A. virescens, form communal aggregations where multiple females share a common nest entrance while maintaining separate brood cells.
Agapostemon texanus
metallic green sweat bee, Texas striped sweat bee
Agapostemon texanus is a ground-nesting sweat bee with the widest geographic range of any species in its genus, spanning from southern Canada to Costa Rica. Both sexes exhibit metallic blue-green coloration on the head and thorax, while males display distinctive black and yellow abdominal banding. The species is exclusively solitary, differing from other Agapostemon that may form communal nests. It is a generalist forager active from March through October, transporting pollen on its hind legs.
Agapostemon virescens
Bicolored Striped Sweat Bee, bicolored striped-sweat bee
Agapostemon virescens, commonly known as the bicolored striped sweat bee, is a metallic green halictid bee native to North America. It is the official bee of Toronto, Canada. Females nest underground, often forming aggregations where multiple females share a single burrow entrance, though the species is considered solitary rather than truly social. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in coloration and is a generalist pollinator frequently observed on flowers.
Agenioideus humilis
Spider Wasp
Agenioideus humilis is a small spider wasp in the family Pompilidae that hunts orbweaver spiders (Araneidae) as prey for its larvae. Females paralyze spiders with their sting, then transport them to nest burrows where a single egg is laid on the immobilized host. The species ranges across most of the United States but is considered scarce throughout its distribution. It favors woodland habitats with sandy soil and has been observed nesting in both excavated burrows and pre-existing cavities such as rock crevices and building cracks.
Ammophila
Thread-waisted Sand Wasps
Ammophila is a large, cosmopolitan genus of solitary hunting wasps in the family Sphecidae, comprising over 200 species distributed across warmer regions of all continents except Antarctica. These thread-waisted wasps are characterized by their elongated, slender petiole connecting the thorax and abdomen, and their distinctive nesting behavior involving burrow excavation and caterpillar provisioning. Females construct underground nests in sandy or compact soils, paralyze caterpillars with their sting, and provide this food source for their developing larvae. The genus serves as a host for Strepsiptera endoparasites and is subject to nest parasitism by satellite flies and other organisms.
Ammophila azteca
Aztec Thread-waisted Wasp
Ammophila azteca is a thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae, native to Canada, Mexico, and the continental United States. It ranges from near sea level to over 6,000 feet in elevation. The species exhibits distinctive nesting behavior involving pebble-mediated burrow closures and progressive provisioning of caterpillar prey for its larvae.
Ammophila formicoides
Ammophila formicoides is a thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae, notable for its ant-mimicking appearance and behavior. It is closely related to A. wrightii, with which it forms a distinct species pair characterized by reddish-brown coloration, small size (under 20 mm), and ground-crawling habits that resemble harvester ants. The species exhibits a primitive behavioral trait: excavating the nest burrow after prey collection rather than before. Females provision nests exclusively with inchworm caterpillars (Geometridae).
Ammophila wrightii
thread-waisted wasp, caterpillar hunter
Ammophila wrightii is a species of thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae, notable for its ant-mimicking appearance and behavior. It is one of the smaller members of its genus, measuring under 20 mm, and exhibits a distinct reddish-brown coloration. The species is known for its unusual nesting behavior among Ammophila wasps: females excavate burrows only after capturing prey, rather than before. It specializes in hunting inchworm caterpillars (Geometridae) to provision its nests.
Ancylandrena
Ancylandrena is a genus of mining bees in the family Andrenidae, established by Cockerell in 1930. The genus contains five described species, all found in North America. One species, Ancylandrena larreae, is commonly known as the creosote bush ancylandrena due to its association with Larrea tridentata. These are solitary bees that nest in the ground.
Ancylandrena koebelei
Ancylandrena koebelei is a solitary bee species in the family Andrenidae, originally described as Megandrena koebelei by Timberlake in 1951. It is currently placed in the genus Ancylandrena, a group of mining bees found in North America. The species is poorly known in the literature, with limited published information on its biology and ecology.
Andrena accepta
Two-spotted Miner Bee
Andrena accepta is a mining bee species in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Two-spotted Miner Bee. It is found in Central America and North America. The species constructs communal nests containing multiple cells and inhabits desert scrub habitat. Its primary host plants for pollen collection belong to the genus Helianthus (sunflowers).
Andrena aliciae
Yellow-faced Miner Bee
Andrena aliciae, known as the Yellow-faced Miner Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America and belongs to a large genus of ground-nesting bees that are important spring pollinators. Like other Andrena species, it excavates tunnels in soil to create nests provisioned with pollen for its larvae.
Andrena alleghaniensis
Allegheny Mining Bee, Appalachian Miner Bee, Alleghany Andrena
A solitary mining bee native to eastern North America. Nests are simple, typically containing only one or two cells. Adults overwinter in soil, emerging in spring to forage and reproduce. The species is part of the diverse Andrena genus, which contains many spring-flying bees associated with forest and woodland habitats.
Andrena anisochlora
Miner's Lettuce Miner
Andrena anisochlora is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Cockerell in 1936. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to create nest cells provisioned with pollen for its larvae. The common name "Miner's Lettuce Miner" suggests a likely association with Claytonia perfoliata (miner's lettuce) as a pollen or nectar source. It is part of the diverse Andrena genus, which contains over 1,500 species worldwide and represents one of the most speciose bee genera in North America.
Andrena argemonis
Prickly-poppy Mining Bee, prickly-poppy andrena
Andrena argemonis, commonly known as the Prickly-poppy Mining Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is a ground-nesting species, like other members of the genus Andrena. The species is found in Central America and North America. The common name suggests a likely association with prickly poppy plants (Argemone species), though specific ecological relationships have not been documented in the available sources.
Andrena auricoma
Golden-haired Miner Bee
Andrena auricoma, the Golden-haired Miner Bee, is a small solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. Females measure 8–10 mm in length, while males are smaller at 6–9 mm. The species is native to the western United States, with its distribution centered in California and relative rarity outside this state. It is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil for reproduction.
Andrena banksi
Banks' Mining Bee, Banks' Andrena
Andrena banksi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. The species was described by Malloch in 1917 and is commonly known as Banks' Mining Bee or Banks' Andrena. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates burrows in soil. The species is part of a large genus of mining bees that are important spring pollinators in temperate forests and open habitats.
Andrena barbilabris
Bearded Miner Bee, Long-lipped Miner, Sandpit Mining Bee
A solitary mining bee with a Holarctic distribution, found across Europe, northern Asia, and North America. Females excavate nesting burrows in sandy soils, provisioning cells with pollen and nectar before laying single eggs. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in coloration and is active from early spring through mid-summer.
Andrena bisalicis
Eastern Willow Miner Bee
Andrena bisalicis, commonly known as the Eastern Willow Miner Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America, with documented presence in the northeastern United States including Vermont. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision offspring with pollen. The species is poorly studied, with limited ecological data available beyond basic taxonomic and distributional records.
Andrena bradleyi
Bradley's Mining Bee, Bradley's Andrena
Andrena bradleyi is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as Bradley's Mining Bee or Bradley's Andrena. It is a ground-nesting bee native to North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical traits of mining bees: excavating tunnels in soil to create nest cells provisioned with pollen and nectar for its larvae. The species was described by Viereck in 1907.
Andrena brevipalpis
Short-palped Miner, short-tongued miner bee
Andrena brevipalpis is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1930. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Vermont and broader North American distribution. The species is an oligolectic specialist, collecting pollen exclusively from Rhus (sumac) flowers. Like other Andrena species, it nests in the ground and is active during spring.
Andrena candida
mock-orange miner bee, Bright Miner
Andrena candida, commonly known as the mock-orange miner bee or Bright Miner, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is distributed across North America and Central America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical ground-nesting behavior characteristic of mining bees, though specific biological details for this species remain limited in available literature.
Andrena cerasifolii
Cherry Leaf Miner Bee, Cherry Plum Miner Bee
Andrena cerasifolii, commonly known as the Cherry Leaf Miner Bee or Cherry Plum Miner Bee, is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is found in Central America and North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical traits of mining bees: ground-nesting behavior and solitary reproduction without colonial structure.
Andrena cerebrata
Andrena cerebrata is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Mitchell in 1960. Like other Andrena species, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. The species is known from North America. As a member of this large genus of mining bees, it likely exhibits the typical Andrena biology of females excavating burrows in soil to provision with pollen for their larvae, though specific details for this species remain poorly documented.
Andrena clarkella
Clark's Mining Bee, Clark's Andrena, Clarke's Mining Bee
Andrena clarkella is a solitary mining bee (family Andrenidae) found in Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. It is one of the earliest spring-flying bees, active from March to May. The species is oligolectic, specializing on willow (Salix) pollen. Females nest in bare or sparsely vegetated sandy soils, often in forest clearings and edges.
Andrena cleodora melanodora
Andrena cleodora melanodora is a subspecies of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1932. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. The subspecies is part of the nominate species Andrena cleodora, which belongs to a diverse group of early-spring flying bees that nest in soil and provision their larvae with pollen. No specific ecological studies or detailed biological observations have been published for this particular subspecies.
Andrena cornelli
Azalea Mining Bee, azalea miner
Andrena cornelli is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Azalea Mining Bee. It is the only known bee species that is oligolectic on azalea (Rhododendron spp.), meaning it exclusively collects pollen from this plant genus. The species possesses widely spaced scopa hairs on its hind legs, an adaptation that allows it to carry the distinctive sticky pollen of azaleas. It is found in North America and is of ecological interest due to its highly specialized pollination relationship.
Andrena crataegi
Hawthorn Mining Bee, Hawthorn Andrena
Andrena crataegi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is found in North America. As a member of the genus Andrena, it nests in the ground and is active in spring. The specific epithet 'crataegi' refers to hawthorn (Crataegus), suggesting a likely association with this plant genus for foraging.
Andrena cressonii
Cresson's Mining Bee, Cresson's Andrena, Dotted Miner Bee
Andrena cressonii, commonly known as Cresson's Mining Bee or the Dotted Miner Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from the United States including Vermont. The species was first described by Robertson in 1891 and includes three recognized subspecies. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it shares the characteristic ground-nesting behavior typical of mining bees, though specific ecological details for this particular species remain limited in available literature.
Andrena cressonii kansensis
Andrena cressonii kansensis is a subspecies of mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It was described by Cockerell in 1899. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. The subspecies is known from North America, with records from Vermont.
Andrena cuneilabris
Wedgy-lipped Miner Bee
Andrena cuneilabris is a species of solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Wedgy-lipped Miner Bee. It was described by Viereck in 1926 and is native to North America. Like other members of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision its offspring with pollen.
Andrena distans
Distant Miner Bee, Cranesbill Miner
Andrena distans is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America, with records from Vermont and broader North American distribution. The species is commonly associated with Geranium maculatum (wild geranium) flowers, which has earned it the common name 'Cranesbill Miner.' As a ground-nesting solitary bee, it excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae.
Andrena dunningi
Dunning's Miner Bee, Dunning's Miner
Andrena dunningi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and lay eggs. As a spring-flying bee, it contributes to early-season pollination. The species is one of many Andrena bees that form a significant component of native bee diversity in temperate North American habitats.
Andrena erigeniae
Spring Beauty Miner Bee, Spring Beauty Andrena
Andrena erigeniae is a solitary mining bee native to North America, commonly known as the Spring Beauty Miner Bee. The species is univoltine, with adults active in spring. Females excavate underground burrows in clay soil, constructing nests with multiple cells provisioned with pollen and nectar. The species exhibits specialized foraging behavior associated with spring-blooming plants.
Andrena erythrogaster
Red-tailed Mining Bee, red-tailed andrena, red-bellied miner bee
Andrena erythrogaster is a solitary mining bee native to North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical ground-nesting behavior characteristic of mining bees. The species is distinguished by its reddish abdominal coloration, reflected in both its scientific and common names. Like other Andrena species, it is a spring-active pollinator that nests in excavated burrows in soil.
Andrena erythronii
Trout-lily Mining Bee, Trout Lily Bee, Trout-lily Andrena
Andrena erythronii is a solitary mining bee native to eastern North America. It is strongly associated with trout lilies (Erythronium), earning its common name. Females measure 11–14 mm, males 9–11 mm. The species has been documented visiting additional spring ephemeral wildflowers and early-flowering trees and shrubs.
Andrena forbesii
Forbes' Mining Bee, Forbes's Miner Bee, Forbes' Andrena
Andrena forbesii is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. Like other members of its genus, it nests in underground burrows excavated in soil. The species was described by Robertson in 1891. Available information on this species is limited compared to better-studied Andrena species.
Andrena fragilis
Fragile Miner Bee, Fragile Dogwood Andrena
Andrena fragilis is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from the northeastern United States including Vermont. The species belongs to a large genus of ground-nesting bees that excavate tunnels in soil to provision their larvae with pollen. Like other Andrena species, it is active in spring and contributes to pollination of early-flowering plants.
Andrena frigida
Frigid Mining Bee, Cold Miner Bee, Frigid Miner
Andrena frigida is a solitary mining bee native to North America, first described by Frederick Smith in 1853. As a member of the family Andrenidae, it is a ground-nesting species that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae. The species epithet 'frigida' (Latin for 'cold') suggests association with cooler conditions or early-season activity, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Andrena fuscicauda
Brown-tailed Miner Bee, Dark-tailed Mining Bee, Dark-tailed Andrena
Andrena fuscicauda is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, characterized by its brown or dark-colored tail. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical traits of mining bees: ground-nesting behavior, solitary reproduction, and spring activity. The species is known from North America, though detailed ecological studies specific to this species remain limited.
Andrena geranii
Geranium Miner Bee, Geranium Andrena
Andrena geranii is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. It is commonly known as the Geranium Miner Bee or Geranium Andrena, names reflecting its documented association with geranium plants (Pelargonium and Geranium species). Like other members of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae. The species is part of the diverse Andrena fauna of eastern North America, though detailed ecological studies specific to this species remain limited.
Andrena helianthi
Sunflower Mining Bee, Sunflower Andrena
Andrena helianthi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Sunflower Mining Bee or Sunflower Andrena. It is native to North America and belongs to the large genus Andrena, which contains over 1,500 species of ground-nesting bees. As a member of this genus, it likely exhibits typical Andrena biology including fossorial nesting in soil and provisioning of nest cells with pollen. The specific epithet 'helianthi' suggests a possible association with sunflowers (Helianthus), though this host relationship requires confirmation.
Andrena hippotes
Hippotes's Miner Bee, Orange-legged Miner Bee
Andrena hippotes is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as Hippotes's Miner Bee or Orange-legged Miner Bee. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in bare soil for nesting. The species is found in North America, with records from Vermont and other regions. Like other Andrena species, it is likely active in spring and plays a role in pollination of early-flowering plants.
Andrena hirticincta
Hairy-banded Mining Bee, Hairy-belted Miner Bee, Hairy-banded Andrena
Andrena hirticincta is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Hairy-banded Mining Bee. The species is found in North America and belongs to a large genus of ground-nesting bees that provision underground burrows with pollen for their larvae. Like other Andrena species, it is a spring-flying bee that contributes to early-season pollination.
Andrena imitatrix
Imitator Miner Bee
Andrena imitatrix is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cresson in 1872. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Vermont and broader distribution across the continent. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision its young with pollen. The species is part of the diverse genus Andrena, which contains over 1,400 species of mining bees worldwide.
Andrena impolita
Unpolished Mining Bee, unpolished miner
Andrena impolita is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by LaBerge in 1987. The species is known from Central America and North America. Like other members of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to create nest cells provisioned with pollen for its larvae. The common name "unpolished miner" refers to the relatively dull or unpolished appearance of the integument compared to some related species.
Andrena integra
Bare Dogwood Miner, short-haired dogwood andrena
Andrena integra is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Bare Dogwood Miner or short-haired dogwood andrena. It is native to North America and has been documented in the northeastern United States, including Vermont. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits typical traits of mining bees: solitary nesting behavior, ground-nesting habits, and role as a pollinator. The species is distinguished by its association with dogwood (Cornus) plants, as suggested by its common name.
Andrena krigiana
Dwarf-dandelion Mining Bee, dwarf-dandelion andrena
Andrena krigiana is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Dwarf-dandelion Mining Bee. It is a ground-nesting species found in North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical traits of mining bees: females excavate burrows in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for their larvae. The specific epithet and common name suggest an association with dwarf-dandelion (Krigia species), likely indicating a pollen specialization.
Andrena livida
Andrena livida is a mining bee species in the family Andrenidae, described by LaBerge in 1977. It is known from Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. Specific details about its biology, host plants, and habitat preferences remain poorly documented in available sources.
Andrena malacothricidis
Desert-dandelion Mining Bee, Desert-dandelion Andrena
Andrena malacothricidis is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Thorp in 1969. The species is commonly known as the Desert-dandelion Mining Bee, reflecting its association with plants in the genus Malacothrix. It is found in Central America and North America. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil for nesting.
Andrena mariae
Maria Miner Bee
Andrena mariae, the Maria Miner Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America and belongs to the large genus Andrena, which comprises over 1,400 species of ground-nesting bees. Like other Andrena species, it is a solitary bee that excavates tunnels in soil to create nests for its offspring. The species was described by Robertson in 1891.
Andrena melliventris
Honey-bellied Andrena, Honey-tailed Miner
Andrena melliventris, commonly known as the honey-bellied andrena or honey-tailed miner, is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is a solitary, ground-nesting bee found in North America and Central America. As with other Andrena species, it excavates tunnels in soil to create nest cells provisioned with pollen for its larvae. The species was described by Cresson in 1872.
Andrena mentzeliae
Blazingstar Andrena
Andrena mentzeliae is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1897. It is native to North America and is commonly known as the Blazingstar Andrena, indicating a likely association with plants in the genus Mentzelia (blazingstars). As with other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen for its larvae.
Andrena mesillae
Andrena mesillae is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae, first described by Cockerell in 1896. As with other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to create nest cells provisioned with pollen for its larvae. The species occurs in North America and Middle America. Like most Andrena, it likely plays a role in spring pollination of wildflowers in its habitat.
Andrena milwaukeensis
Milwaukee Mining Bee, Milwaukee Andrena
Andrena milwaukeensis is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. It is a ground-nesting species that has been documented as the primary host for the parasitic strepsipteran Stylops advarians in Saskatchewan, Canada. Research on this host-parasite relationship has revealed significant anatomical and behavioral impacts of parasitism on female bees.
Andrena miserabilis
Miserable Mining Bee, Miserable Andrena
Andrena miserabilis, commonly known as the Miserable Mining Bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. The species was described by Cresson in 1872 and occurs in Central America and North America. As with other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting solitary bee that plays a role in pollination.
Andrena nigripes
big-headed andrena, Black-legged Miner
Andrena nigripes is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the big-headed andrena or Black-legged Miner. The species is characterized by its relatively large head compared to body size, a trait reflected in its common name. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical ground-nesting behavior of mining bees, excavating tunnels in soil to provision individual brood cells. It is native to North America.
Andrena nivalis
Snowy Mining Bee, Snow Miner Bee
Andrena nivalis, commonly known as the snowy mining bee or snow miner bee, is a solitary mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America and is active in early spring. Like other Andrena species, it nests in the ground and provisions its brood cells with pollen and nectar.
Andrena nubecula
Cloudy-winged Mining Bee, Cloudy-winged Miner Bee
Andrena nubecula is a mining bee species in the family Andrenidae. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species is a solitary ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it contributes to pollination services in its range.
Andrena olivacea
Olivaceous Mining Bee
Andrena olivacea is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is found in North America. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a solitary bee that nests in the ground. The species was described by Viereck in 1917. Like other mining bees, it likely plays a role in pollination of spring-blooming plants.
Andrena palpalis
Blue-Phacelia Miner
Andrena palpalis is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Timberlake in 1951. It is found in Central America and North America. The species is commonly known as the Blue-Phacelia Miner, suggesting an association with Phacelia species as a pollen or nectar source. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee.
Andrena perarmata
Large-toothed Miner, Armed Miner Bee, Well-armed Andrena
Andrena perarmata is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is known by multiple common names including Large-toothed Miner, Armed Miner Bee, and Well-armed Andrena. The species occurs in North America. As a member of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae.
Andrena pertristis
Mournful Mining Bee, Sad Miner Bee, Black Mournful Miner
Andrena pertristis is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Mournful Mining Bee or Sad Miner Bee. It is native to North America. The species was described by Cockerell in 1905 and includes two recognized subspecies: Andrena pertristis pertristis and Andrena pertristis carliniformis.
Andrena pertristis carliniformis
Andrena pertristis carliniformis is a subspecies of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Viereck and Cockerell in 1914. As a member of the genus Andrena, it belongs to a diverse group of solitary, ground-nesting bees. The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within the species Andrena pertristis.
Andrena piperi
Piper's Miner Bee, Piper's Mining Bee
Andrena piperi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Viereck in 1904. The species is distributed across Central America and North America, where it nests in soil. As with other members of the genus Andrena, it is a ground-nesting bee that provisions its brood cells with pollen and nectar.
Andrena pruni
Cherry Mining Bee, cherry miner
Andrena pruni is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. It is commonly known as the Cherry Mining Bee or cherry miner. Like other members of the genus Andrena, it nests in the ground and is an important pollinator. The specific epithet 'pruni' suggests a likely association with Prunus (cherry/plum) species as a pollen or nectar source, though this relationship requires confirmation.
Andrena prunorum
Prunus Miner Bee, Purple Miner Bee
Andrena prunorum is a solitary mining bee in the subgenus Plastandrena, found across North and Central America. It is a spring-flying species that nests in the ground, with females constructing individual burrows containing multiple brood cells. The species has been observed to prefer pollen from Rosaceae plants, including fruit trees.
Andrena regularis
Regular Mining Bee, Regular Miner
Andrena regularis is a ground-nesting solitary mining bee native to North America. It is known to form large nesting aggregations, as documented at East Lawn Cemetery in Ithaca, New York, where it was the dominant species in a study collecting 3,251 individuals across 16 bee, fly, and beetle species. The species exhibits a 41-day emergence period from late March through mid-May, with distinct timing of male and female emergence. It serves as a host for the brood parasite Nomada imbricata. Cemeteries may function as important refugia for this and other ground-nesting bee populations.
Andrena rehni
Rehn's Miner Bee
Andrena rehni is a solitary, ground-nesting miner bee native to eastern North America. The species is oligolectic, specializing on pollen from Castanea species including American chestnut and Allegheny chinkapin. Following the functional extinction of American chestnut due to chestnut blight, the bee became increasingly rare and was not documented for nearly a century until its rediscovery in 2018. It has since been recorded in multiple states after long absences.
Andrena robertsonii
Robertson's Miner Bee
Andrena robertsonii, commonly known as Robertson's Miner Bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Andrenidae. The species occurs in North America, with confirmed records from Vermont and broader distribution across the continent. Like other Andrena species, it is a fossorial bee that excavates tunnels in soil for nesting. As a member of the large mining bee genus Andrena, it contributes to spring pollination, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Andrena rudbeckiae
Coneflower Mining Bee
Andrena rudbeckiae is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Coneflower Mining Bee. It is native to North America and is named for its association with Rudbeckia (coneflower) species, suggesting a likely host plant relationship. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the typical ground-nesting behavior characteristic of mining bees, excavating tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae.
Andrena rufosignata
red-faced miner bee, Brown-fovea Miner
Andrena rufosignata is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1902. It is known from North America, with confirmed records from Vermont. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and lay eggs. As a member of the large Andrena genus, it contributes to spring pollination of wildflowers.
Andrena sola
Lonely Mining Bee, lonely miner
Andrena sola is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Lonely Mining Bee. It is native to Central America and North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the fossorial nesting behavior typical of mining bees, constructing underground burrows for reproduction. The specific epithet "sola" (Latin for "alone" or "lonely") reflects its solitary nature rather than social behavior.
Andrena sperryi
Andrena sperryi is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Cockerell in 1937. It belongs to the large genus Andrena, which comprises over 1,500 species of solitary, ground-nesting bees worldwide. As a member of this genus, it likely exhibits the typical Andrena biology of excavating burrows in soil and provisioning nest cells with pollen for larval development. The species is recorded from North America.
Andrena sphaeralceae
Globemallow Andrena
Andrena sphaeralceae, commonly known as the Globemallow Andrena, is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is a solitary bee that excavates underground nests in soil. The species is found in North America and Central America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it contributes to spring pollination of wildflowers. The specific epithet 'sphaeralceae' suggests a likely association with plants in the genus Sphaeralcea (globemallows), though this host relationship requires confirmation.
Andrena transnigra
Black-banded Mining Bee, Black-banded Miner Bee
Andrena transnigra is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Black-banded Mining Bee. It is a solitary, ground-nesting bee native to North America. As a member of the genus Andrena, it shares the typical characteristics of mining bees, including fossorial nesting habits and solitary lifestyle without colonial social structure.
Andrena vulpicolor
Andrena vulpicolor is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Cockerell in 1897. It belongs to the large genus Andrena, which contains over 250 species of solitary, ground-nesting bees. Like other members of this genus, it is a solitary bee that nests in soil and provisions its young with pollen. The species is native to North America.
Andrena wilkella
Wilke's Mining Bee, Wilke's Mining-bee
Andrena wilkella is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to North America, possibly via ship ballast. It is active from April to August and nests both singly and in aggregations. The species shows strong pollen specialization on Fabaceae, particularly clover and sweet clover.
Andrena ziziae
Golden-Alexanders Mining Bee, Golden Alexanders Miner Bee
Andrena ziziae is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Golden-Alexanders Mining Bee. It is native to North America and belongs to the large genus Andrena, which comprises over 1,500 species of ground-nesting bees. The species is named for its association with golden alexanders (Zizia aurea), a spring-blooming wildflower in the carrot family. Like other Andrena species, it is a solitary bee that nests in burrows excavated in soil and plays a role in early-season pollination.
Anoplius aethiops
Anoplius aethiops is a large spider wasp in the family Pompilidae. Females hunt and paralyze wolf spiders (family Lycosidae), particularly species in the genus Hogna, to provision underground burrows for their offspring. The species is widely distributed across North America and is most active in late summer and early fall. It is morphologically similar to Anoplius cleora, requiring microscopic examination for definitive identification.
Anthemurgus
passionflower bee
Anthemurgus is a subgenus within Protandrena (family Andrenidae) containing at least one confirmed species, P. (Anthemurgus) passiflorae, commonly called the passionflower bee. This bee is notable for extreme host-plant specialization (monolecty) on Passiflora lutea, the yellow passionflower. The subgenus has undergone repeated taxonomic revision, having been treated as a monotypic genus, a subgenus of Pseudopanurgus, and currently as a subgenus of Protandrena. A chromosome-level genome assembly has been completed for the sole species.
Anthophora
Common Digger Bees, Digger Bees
Anthophora is a large genus of solitary bees in the family Apidae, comprising over 450 species across 14 subgenera. These bees are most diverse in the Holarctic and African biogeographic regions. All species are solitary, though many nest in large aggregations. Nearly all species excavate nests in soil, either in banks or flat ground, with larvae developing in waterproof-lined cells without cocoons. Some species, notably Anthophora bomboides, are bumble bee mimics and construct distinctive turret-like nest entrances.
Anthophora bomboides
Bumble-bee-mimic anthophora, Bumblebee-like Digger Bee, Stanford bumble bee digger
Anthophora bomboides is a solitary ground-nesting bee native to North America. Females construct distinctive turreted nests in sandy substrates, particularly coastal sand cliffs. The species exhibits Batesian mimicry of bumblebees, specifically resembling Bombus vosnesenskii in coloration. Research has documented unique microbial symbioses, with bacteria and fungi proliferating during larval diapause and potentially enhancing overwintering survival.
Anthophora californica
California Digger Bee, California Anthophora
Anthophora californica is a solitary digger bee in the family Apidae, found in Central America and North America. The species was described by Cresson in 1869 and includes two recognized subspecies: A. c. albomarginata and A. c. californica. As a member of the genus Anthophora, it exhibits ground-nesting behavior typical of digger bees. The species is part of the diverse native bee fauna of western North America.
Anthophora capistrata
Anthophora capistrata is a solitary digger bee in the family Apidae, described by Cresson in 1879. It belongs to a genus of ground-nesting bees that excavate burrows in soil or sand. The species is recorded from Middle America and North America. Like other Anthophora species, it is likely a generalist forager on floral resources, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
Anthophora crotchii
Anthophora crotchii is a species of digger bee in the family Apidae, first described by Ezra Townsend Cresson in 1879 and named after entomologist George Robert Crotch. It belongs to the genus Anthophora, a group of solitary, ground-nesting bees commonly known as digger bees. The species occurs in North America. Like other members of its genus, it is expected to be a solitary bee that excavates nests in soil, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Anthophora edwardsii
Edwards' anthophora
Anthophora edwardsii, commonly known as Edwards' anthophora, is a solitary digger bee native to western North America. Adults measure 12–18 mm in length and exhibit sexual dimorphism in facial coloration. The species is an important pollinator, with documented associations to manzanita flowers. Like other members of the genus Anthophora, it nests in the ground and is active during spring.
Anthophora hololeuca
Anthophora hololeuca is a solitary digger bee in the family Apidae, first described by Cockerell in 1923. Like other members of the genus Anthophora, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates burrows in soil or sand substrates. The species occurs in North America and Middle America, though specific details of its biology remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as Anthophora bomboides.
Anthophora phaceliae
Anthophora phaceliae is a solitary digger bee in the family Apidae, described by Brooks in 1988. The species epithet "phaceliae" suggests a likely association with Phacelia flowers. Like other members of the genus Anthophora, it is presumed to nest in the ground. Available information is limited; the species has been recorded in Middle America and North America with minimal observational data.
Anthophora pueblo
Pueblo Sandstone-digger Bee
Anthophora pueblo is a solitary digger bee species in the family Apidae, described by Orr in 2016. The species belongs to a genus known for ground-nesting behavior, with many Anthophora species constructing nests in soil or sandstone substrates. The common name "Pueblo Sandstone-digger Bee" suggests an association with sandstone geological formations. As a member of the tribe Anthophorini, it shares characteristics with other digger bees that excavate burrows for brood rearing.
Anthophora urbana
Urbane Digger Bee
Anthophora urbana is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the Urbane Digger Bee. It is native to Central America and North America, with a broad distribution that includes arid regions such as the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. The species is a floral generalist, collecting pollen and nectar from diverse plant species. A. urbana is notable for being proposed as a candidate for California's state bee due to its widespread presence and representation of solitary native bees.
Anthophorini
Digger Bees, Digger Bee, Burrowing Bees
Anthophorini is a large tribe of solitary bees in the family Apidae, commonly known as digger bees or burrowing bees. The tribe contains over 750 species worldwide, with the majority in the genera Amegilla and Anthophora. These bees are ground-nesting specialists, excavating burrows in soil, sand, or clay substrates, often constructing distinctive turrets at nest entrances. Many species exhibit bumble bee mimicry and have specialized associations with particular plant groups for pollen collection.
Anthophorula nitens
Shining Mini-Digger
Anthophorula nitens is a small bee species in the family Apidae, tribe Exomalopsini, commonly known as the Shining Mini-Digger. It was first described by Cockerell in 1915 under the basionym Exomalopsis nitens. The species is native to North America and belongs to a genus of solitary bees that are typically associated with ground-nesting habits. Like other members of Exomalopsini, it likely exhibits specialized pollen-collecting structures and solitary reproductive behavior.
Aphaenogaster fulva
Tawny Collared Ant
Aphaenogaster fulva is a species of myrmicine ant in the genus Aphaenogaster, first described by Roger in 1863. It is part of a species complex that has undergone taxonomic revision, with some authorities treating related forms as separate species or subspecies. The species has been studied for its spatial distribution patterns in temperate forests, particularly in relation to environmental gradients such as soil moisture and vegetation cover. Like other Aphaenogaster species, it is a ground-nesting ant with generalist foraging habits.
Aphaenogaster treatae
Treat's Collared Ant
Aphaenogaster treatae, commonly known as Treat's Collared Ant, is a species of ant in the genus Aphaenogaster. Described by Forel in 1886, this species belongs to the tribe Stenammini within the subfamily Myrmicinae. The species has been documented through 188 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is a recognized though not extensively studied member of the eastern temperate forest ant fauna. As with many Aphaenogaster species, it is likely a ground-nesting ant, though specific natural history details remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Aphilanthops hispidus
ant-queen kidnapper
Aphilanthops hispidus is a solitary wasp species in the family Crabronidae, known as an "ant-queen kidnapper" for its specialized predation on winged queens of ants in the genus Formica. The species occurs in North America, including the southwestern United States and Mexico, and has been documented as abundant on flowers of seepwillow (Baccharis salicifolia) during late summer months. Adult females excavate underground burrows to store paralyzed ant queens as food for their developing larvae.
Augochlorella aurata
golden green sweat bee, golden sweat bee
Augochlorella aurata is a primitively eusocial sweat bee (Halictidae) and one of the most common bees in eastern North America. Adults display brilliant metallic green coloration, often diffused with copper, red, or yellow tones. The species nests in soil and exhibits a seasonal colony cycle with distinct foundress, worker, and reproductive phases. It is a generalist pollen forager and has been documented visiting numerous horticultural crops and native plants.
Bembecinus floridanus
sand wasp
Bembecinus floridanus is a small sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, first described by Krombein & Willink in 1951. As a member of the genus Bembecinus, it exhibits the characteristic traits of this group: strongly convergent eyes at the bottom of the face and strongly divergent at the top of the head, along with a petiolate or nearly petiolate second submarginal cell in the forewing. The species is found in North America and, like other Bembecinus, is a solitary ground-nesting wasp that provisions its larvae with prey.
Bembecinus neglectus
Bembecinus neglectus is a species of sand wasp in the family Crabronidae (formerly treated as Bembicidae). It was first described by Cresson in 1873 and is known to occur in North America. As a member of the tribe Bembicini, it belongs to a group of solitary wasps commonly associated with sandy habitats. The species has been documented in museum collections and through citizen science observations, though detailed biological studies remain limited.
Bembicini
Sand Wasps
Bembicini is a large tribe of solitary wasps commonly known as sand wasps, comprising approximately 20 genera distributed across multiple subtribes. These wasps are characterized by their ground-nesting behavior in sandy substrates and their role as predators provisioning nests with paralyzed insect prey. The tribe exhibits notable diversity in prey preferences, with most genera specializing on particular insect orders—most commonly Diptera, though some target Hemiptera, Orthoptera, or other groups. Many species form dense nesting aggregations where numerous females excavate burrows in close proximity, creating conspicuous colonies that attract specialized parasites and cleptoparasites.
Bembix
sand wasps
Bembix is a cosmopolitan genus of approximately 380 species of solitary predatory sand wasps in the family Crabronidae. These wasps are characterized by their large size, often bright coloration, and specialized nesting behavior in sandy substrates. Females excavate burrows in loose sand and provision them with paralyzed flies for their larvae, exhibiting progressive provisioning where prey is delivered as the larva develops. The genus has been documented across North America, Europe, southern Africa, and Australia, with species showing varying degrees of geographic restriction from widespread to narrowly endemic.
Bembix belfragei
A solitary sand wasp in the genus Bembix, characterized by ground-nesting behavior in loose, sandy substrates. Females excavate burrows to provision with paralyzed flies, exhibiting progressive parental care by delivering prey as larvae develop. Adults of both sexes visit flowers for nectar, particularly composites. The species is part of a diverse North American radiation of sand wasps with complex nesting behaviors.
Bombus sitkensis
Sitka bumble bee, Sitka bumblebee
Bombus sitkensis, the Sitka bumble bee, is a medium-sized bumble bee species native to western North America. It is distinguished by its distinctive color pattern featuring yellow and black on the thorax with a black central patch, yellow on the first two abdominal segments, black on segments three and four with yellow posterior rims, and brownish-red terminal segments. The species exhibits an exceptionally long flight period for queens, spanning nearly the entire year in some populations. It has experienced mild population declines in parts of California due to competition with Bombus vosnesenskii for nesting sites.
Bombus ternarius
Tricolored Bumble Bee, Orange-belted Bumblebee
Bombus ternarius is a small, slender bumblebee distinguished by its striking tricolor pattern of yellow, orange, and black bands. It is a ground-nesting, eusocial species with an annual colony cycle lasting one season. The species is common throughout the northeastern United States and much of Canada, where it serves as an important pollinator of native plants including Rubus, goldenrods, Vaccinium, and milkweeds.
Calliopsis
mining bees, panurgine bees
Calliopsis is a genus of solitary mining bees in the family Andrenidae, comprising over 80 described species distributed throughout the western hemisphere. These small to medium-sized bees are ground-nesting, with females excavating burrows in sandy or loose soils. The genus includes both polylectic and oligolectic species, with some showing tight specialization to particular pollen hosts such as Prosopis. Several species have been studied in detail for their nesting biology, foraging behavior, and host-parasite relationships with cleptoparasitic bees.
Calliopsis andreniformis
Eastern Miner Bee
Calliopsis andreniformis, commonly known as the eastern miner bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Andrenidae. It is native to North America and has been documented as a specialist pollinator of plants in the family Fabaceae. The species belongs to a genus of small mining bees that typically nest in sandy or bare soils. Like other members of Andrenidae, females construct individual burrows and provision cells with pollen and nectar for their offspring.
Calliopsis anomoptera
Strange-winged Calliopsis
Calliopsis anomoptera is a small mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Michener in 1942. The common name 'Strange-winged Calliopsis' refers to distinctive wing characteristics. Like other members of the genus Calliopsis, it is a ground-nesting solitary bee. The species occurs in both Central America and North America.
Calliopsis barbata
Calliopsis barbata is a small mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Timberlake in 1952. As a member of the genus Calliopsis, it belongs to a group of solitary, ground-nesting bees commonly found in open, sandy habitats. The species occurs in Central America and North America, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented in published literature.
Calliopsis coloradensis
Colorado Calliopsis Bee
A small mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to western North America. Females are solitary ground-nesters that provision burrows with pollen and nectar for their offspring. Males are often observed flying low over nesting aggregations in search of mates. The species is associated with sandy soils in prairie and open habitats.
Calliopsis filiorum
Calliopsis filiorum is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Rozen in 1963. The species belongs to the genus Calliopsis, a group of small to medium-sized ground-nesting bees. Like other members of Andrenidae, females construct solitary burrows in soil. The specific epithet "filiorum" (Latin for "of the daughters") presumably references an aspect of the species' biology or discovery context.
Calliopsis fracta
Calliopsis fracta is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, originally described as Nomadopsis fracta by Rozen in 1952. It belongs to the tribe Calliopsini within the subfamily Panurginae. The species is native to North America and is part of a diverse genus of solitary bees that nest in the ground.
Calliopsis hesperia
Calliopsis hesperia is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Swenk and Cockerell in 1907. The species is native to North America and belongs to a genus of small, ground-nesting bees commonly found in sandy soils. Two subspecies are recognized: C. h. hesperia and C. h. equina. As a member of the Panurginae subfamily, this bee is part of a diverse group of solitary bees that are important native pollinators.
Calliopsis nebraskensis
Nebraska calliopsis
Calliopsis nebraskensis, the Nebraska calliopsis, is a small mining bee in the family Andrenidae. It is a ground-nesting solitary bee native to North America. The species was described by Crawford in 1902. Like other members of the genus Calliopsis, it likely nests in sandy or loose soils.
Calliopsis pugionis
Pugnosed Miner Bee
Calliopsis pugionis is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1925. It is found in North America, where it excavates burrows in sandy soil. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism with females larger than males, and has a female-biased investment sex ratio consistent with local mate competition theory. It serves as the host for the cleptoparasitic bee Holcopasites ruthae.
Calliopsis rhodophila
Calliopsis rhodophila is a mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1897. The species occurs in Central and North America, where it nests in sandy soils. Like other members of the genus, it is solitary and ground-nesting. Observations of related Calliopsis species suggest males are notably larger than typical for the genus and exhibit hovering flight behavior near female nesting sites.
Calliopsis subalpina
Calliopsis subalpina is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, first described by Theodore Dru Alison Cockerell in 1894. As a member of the genus Calliopsis, it belongs to a group of small to medium-sized solitary bees that nest in the ground. The species occurs in Central America and North America, with records spanning from middle to high elevations. Like other Andrenidae, females construct individual burrows in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for their offspring.
Calliopsis zebrata
Streaked Miner Bee
Calliopsis zebrata, commonly known as the streaked miner bee, is a ground-nesting solitary bee in the family Andrenidae. It is notable among Calliopsis species for having relatively large males. The species inhabits sandy soils in plains and prairie environments and has been documented visiting flowers of White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida). It is found in North America, with observations from Colorado and other regions.
Calliopsis zebrata bobbae
A subspecies of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, known from sandy soils in Colorado and adjacent regions. Males are notably larger than typical for the genus Calliopsis and exhibit distinctive flight behavior, hovering persistently over nesting sites. The subspecies was described by Rozen in 1958 and is part of the diverse native bee fauna of western North America.
Camponotus americanus
American Carpenter Ant
Camponotus americanus is a North American carpenter ant species characterized by its relatively large size among congeners. Workers measure 7–10 mm in length. The species is primarily ground-nesting, though it exhibits flexibility in nest site selection. It belongs to the diverse genus Camponotus, which contains over 1,000 species globally and is notable for its wood-excavating habits and ecological roles as decomposers.
Camponotus socius
Sandhill Carpenter Ant
A large carpenter ant native to the southeastern United States, well-adapted to sandy soils of xeric woodlands. Exhibits polymorphic worker castes with distinctive coloration including variegated gaster banding. Notable for ground-nesting behavior unusual among Camponotus species, constructing deep nests with satellite colonies. Activity is primarily crepuscular, with midday retreat during hot periods.
Camponotus vicinus
Bicolored Carpenter Ant
Camponotus vicinus is a large, conspicuous carpenter ant distributed across western North America from Alaska to Mexico and east to Texas and Manitoba. Unlike many carpenter ants that nest in wood, this species typically nests in soil under stones and other objects, though it also uses fallen, decomposing logs in higher elevation conifer forests. It is a prominent scavenger and predator in terrestrial ecosystems and is one of the most abundant ground-dwelling arthropods in California's higher elevation conifer forests. The species belongs to a genetically diverse species complex with cryptic diversity, including localized populations of conservation interest such as an undescribed species endemic to the Channel Islands.
Centridini
oil-collecting bees, oil bees
Centridini is a tribe of large apid bees distinguished by specialized adaptations for collecting floral oils, often from plants of the family Malpighiaceae. Many species possess modified leg structures—either combs of flattened, blunt bristles or velvety pads—for gathering oils, which are used in nest construction and cell provisioning. The tribe includes ground-nesting and cavity-nesting solitary bees with diverse nesting behaviors across the Americas. Members exhibit notable thermal tolerance, with some desert species remaining active at high temperatures when other bees are inactive.
Centris
Oil-diggers
Centris is a genus of approximately 250 large apid bees distributed from the southern United States through South America. Females are specialized oil collectors, possessing morphological adaptations for gathering floral oils from plants, primarily in the family Malpighiaceae, which they use for larval nutrition and cell construction. The genus is sister to the corbiculate bees (honey bees, bumble bees, stingless bees) and represents an important lineage for understanding bee evolution and pollination ecology.
Cercerini
Weevil Wasps and Allies
Cercerini is a tribe of solitary wasps within the subfamily Philanthinae of the family Crabronidae. Members are commonly known as "weevil wasps" due to their specialized predation on adult weevils (Curculionidae). The tribe contains approximately 900 species across several genera, with Cerceris being the largest and most widely distributed. These wasps are characterized by their stout bodies, strong mandibles adapted for handling hard-bodied prey, and distinctive nesting behaviors involving burrows in soil or pre-existing cavities.
Cerceris arelate
Cerceris arelate is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae. It is native to North America and belongs to a genus known for specialized prey capture, with different Cerceris species targeting distinct insect groups. Like other members of its genus, it constructs underground nests and provisions them with paralyzed prey for its larvae.
Cerceris atramontensis
Cerceris atramontensis is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae, first described by Banks in 1913. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it is a ground-nesting wasp that provisions its underground burrows with paralyzed insect prey for its offspring. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada including Alberta.
Cerceris bicornuta
Cerceris bicornuta is a solitary digger wasp in the family Crabronidae. It is a large species with distinctive orange and white markings, occurring throughout much of North America with particular abundance in the southeastern United States. The species is a specialist predator of weevils in the genus Sphenophorus, which it paralyzes with its sting and provisions in underground nests for its offspring.
Cerceris californica
Cerceris californica is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. The species is a known predator of Buprestidae beetles (jewel beetles), paralyzing them with its sting to provision underground nests for its offspring. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it exhibits prey specialization, though the full breadth of its prey preferences has not been extensively documented.
Cerceris compacta
Cerceris compacta is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae, first described by Cresson in 1865. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, this species is a ground-nesting wasp that hunts and paralyzes prey to provision underground nests for its larvae. The species occurs in North America and Middle America. As a member of the Cerceris genus, it likely exhibits prey specialization, though specific prey preferences for C. compacta have not been documented in the available sources.
Cerceris crucis
Cerceris crucis is a solitary crabronid wasp described in 1904. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, this species is a ground-nesting predatory wasp that provisions its burrows with paralyzed insect prey. The specific prey preferences and detailed biology of C. crucis remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as C. fumipennis.
Cerceris deserta
Cerceris deserta is a solitary ground-nesting wasp in the family Crabronidae, described by Thomas Say in 1824. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it is a predatory wasp that provisions its underground nests with paralyzed insect prey for its offspring. The specific epithet "deserta" suggests an association with arid or desert environments, though precise ecological details remain limited in available literature. The species is part of a diverse genus of hunting wasps, many of which exhibit prey specialization.
Cerceris flavofasciata floridensis
Cerceris flavofasciata floridensis is a subspecies of the crabronid wasp C. flavofasciata, described by Banks in 1915. It is currently treated as a synonym in taxonomic databases. The parent species belongs to a genus of solitary, ground-nesting predatory wasps that specialize on particular beetle prey. While specific information for this subspecies is sparse, congeners such as C. fumipennis have been extensively studied for their role in biosurveillance of invasive buprestid beetles.
Cerceris frontata
Cerceris frontata is a solitary wasp species in the family Crabronidae, native to North America. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it is a ground-nesting predator that provisions its nests with paralyzed insect prey for its larvae. The species was first described by Thomas Say in 1823. Specific prey preferences and detailed biology remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as C. fumipennis.
Cerceris fumipennis
Smoky-winged Beetle Bandit Wasp
Cerceris fumipennis is a solitary, ground-nesting wasp and the only buprestid-hunting member of family Crabronidae in eastern North America. Females construct subterranean nests in hard-packed sandy soil and provision them exclusively with paralyzed jewel beetles (Buprestidae). The wasp has become a valuable biosurveillance tool for detecting the invasive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), as it efficiently locates and captures these beetles from distances up to 2 km from its nest. Citizen science programs known as "WaspWatchers" monitor wasp colonies to survey for pest beetles.
Cerceris gnarina
Cerceris gnarina is a solitary ground-nesting wasp in the family Crabronidae, first described by Nathan Banks in 1913. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, this species is a specialist predator that captures and paralyzes prey to provision underground nests for its larvae. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and prey preferences remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as C. fumipennis.
Cerceris halone
Cerceris halone is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae, described by Banks in 1912. It occurs in Central America and North America. The species is a specialized predator of Curculionidae (weevil) beetles and nests in sandy substrates. Like other Cerceris species, it exhibits prey-specific hunting behavior, provisioning underground nests with paralyzed beetles for its larval offspring.
Cerceris occipitomaculata
Cerceris occipitomaculata is a solitary ground-nesting wasp in the family Crabronidae. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it is a specialist predator that captures and paralyzes prey to provision underground nests for its offspring. The species is distributed across North America and Middle America. As with congeners, it likely exhibits prey specialization, though specific prey records for this species are not well documented in the available sources.
Cerceris rufopicta
Cerceris rufopicta is a solitary ground-nesting wasp in the family Crabronidae (formerly Philanthidae). It is native to North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it is a specialist predator that captures and paralyzes prey to provision underground nests for its larvae. The specific prey preferences for this species have not been documented in the available literature.
Cerceris sextoides
weevil wasp
Cerceris sextoides is a solitary hunting wasp in the family Crabronidae that specializes in capturing weevils and other beetles to provision its underground nests. The species is common in Pacific coast states from British Columbia to southern California, ranging inland through Idaho, northwest Utah, and northern Nevada. Males emerge before females and establish territories, often perching on vegetation to watch for competitors. Females paralyze prey with their sting and transport it back to burrows excavated in sandy clay or gravelly clay soil.
Cerceris truncata
Cerceris truncata is a solitary wasp species in the family Crabronidae, described by Cameron in 1890. It belongs to a genus of predatory wasps known for specializing on particular prey groups. Most Cerceris species are ground-nesting solitary wasps that paralyze prey with their sting to provision underground nests for their larvae. The specific biology and prey preferences of C. truncata remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as C. fumipennis.
Cerceris verticalis
Cerceris verticalis is a solitary predatory wasp in the family Crabronidae. Like other members of the genus Cerceris, it constructs underground nests and provisions them with paralyzed insect prey for its larvae. The species was described by Frederick Smith in 1856 and occurs in North America and Middle America. As a member of the diverse genus Cerceris, it likely specializes on a particular prey group, though specific prey associations remain undocumented in the available sources.
Chlorion
cricket hunter wasps, steel-blue cricket hunters
Chlorion is a genus of solitary sphecid wasps distributed across the Americas, Africa, and tropical Asia through Java. The genus contains approximately 20 described species, including the well-known Steel-blue Cricket Hunter Wasp (Chlorion aerarium). Females construct underground burrows provisioned with paralyzed orthopteran prey—primarily crickets for most species, though Chlorion cyaneum preys on cockroaches. The genus is characterized by metallic blue to violet coloration, large size, and distinctive nesting behavior often associated with hard-packed soil habitats.
Clypeadon
Clypeadon is a genus of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae, subfamily Philanthinae. These wasps are known to hunt harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex species) as prey for their larvae. The genus contains nine described species distributed in North America, primarily in western and southwestern regions of the United States.
Colletes
plasterer bees, cellophane bees, polyester bees
Colletes is a large genus of solitary ground-nesting bees in the family Colletidae, comprising approximately 470 described species with an estimated total around 700. Adults are small, typically 1–2 cm long, with dense pale hair and distinctive wing venation. Females construct individual underground burrows lined with a unique polyester secretion from the Dufour's gland, creating a cellophane-like waterproof coating that gives these bees their common names. They are among the earliest native bees to emerge in spring and are important pollinators, with many species showing specialized pollen-foraging preferences.
Colletes aestivalis
Alumroot Cellophane Bee, Summer Cellophane Bee
Colletes aestivalis is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as the Alumroot Cellophane Bee. It is one of approximately 99 Colletes species in North America. Like other members of its genus, females construct individual burrows in sandy soils and line brood cells with a distinctive cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. The specific epithet 'aestivalis' (Latin for 'of summer') reflects its summer flight period, distinguishing it from many congeners that are active in spring or fall.
Colletes birkmanni
polyester bee, plasterer bee, cellophane bee
Colletes birkmanni is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, one of approximately 99 North American species in the genus Colletes. Like other members of its genus, females construct individual burrows in sandy or thinly vegetated soils and line brood cells with a distinctive cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. This species belongs to a group commonly called 'polyester bees' or 'plasterer bees' due to this unique waterproofing behavior.
Colletes bryanti
Colletes bryanti is a solitary bee species in the family Colletidae, commonly known as polyester bees or plasterer bees. Like other members of its genus, it is native to North America. The species was described by Timberlake in 1951. Specific ecological details for this species are not well documented in available sources.
Colletes compactus
polyester bee, plasterer bee, cellophane bee
Colletes compactus is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, native to North America. Like other members of its genus, it constructs subterranean burrows lined with a distinctive cellophane-like secretion produced by the Dufour's gland, earning the common name "polyester bee" or "plasterer bee." The species nests in aggregations in sandy soils, with females provisioning individual brood cells with a semi-liquid mixture of pollen and nectar. Males emerge before females and actively patrol nesting areas seeking mates.
Colletes fulgidus longiplumosus
Long-plumed Cellophane Bee
Colletes fulgidus longiplumosus is a subspecies of plasterer bee in the family Colletidae. Plasterer bees are solitary ground-nesting bees that line their burrows with a cellophane-like secretion from an abdominal gland. As a member of the genus Colletes, this subspecies shares the characteristic vernal activity pattern and ground-nesting biology typical of the group. The subspecific epithet 'longiplumosus' refers to notably long plumose (feathery) hairs, likely a distinguishing feature from the nominate subspecies.
Colletes howardi
Colletes howardi is a species of solitary bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as plasterer bees. It is found in North America. As a member of the genus Colletes, it likely shares the characteristic behavior of lining underground brood chambers with a glandular secretion that dries into a cellophane-like, waterproof coating.
Colletes hyalinus
polyester bee, plasterer bee, cellophane bee
Colletes hyalinus is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, native to North America. The species belongs to a group commonly known as polyester bees or plasterer bees, named for the distinctive cellophane-like lining females create in their underground brood cells using secretions from the Dufour's gland. Three subspecies are recognized: C. h. hyalinus, C. h. gaudialis, and C. h. oregonensis. Like other members of the genus, this species exhibits protandry, with males emerging before females.
Colletes hyalinus gaudialis
polyester bee, plasterer bee, cellophane bee
Colletes hyalinus gaudialis is a subspecies of polyester bee in the family Colletidae. Like other members of its genus, females construct solitary underground nests lined with a cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. This waterproof coating protects the semi-liquid pollen and nectar provisions for developing larvae. The subspecies is found in North America and shares the general biology of other Colletes species.
Colletes inaequalis
Unequal Cellophane Bee, Plasterer Bee, Polyester Bee
Colletes inaequalis is a univoltine, ground-nesting solitary bee and one of the earliest pollinators to emerge in North American spring. Males emerge approximately two weeks before females and patrol nesting sites seeking mates. Females construct individual underground burrows in sandy soils, lining brood cells with a polyester secretion from abdominal glands that creates a waterproof, cellophane-like coating. The species exhibits strong site fidelity, with offspring often nesting near parental aggregation sites. It is polylectic, visiting early spring flowering trees including Eastern Redbud, maple, willow, and apple.
Colletes kincaidii
Kincaid's Cellophane Bee, Kincaid's Polyester Bee
Colletes kincaidii, known as Kincaid's cellophane bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae. Like other Colletes species, females construct individual burrows and line brood cells with a cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland, creating waterproof chambers for larval development. The species has been documented as a host for the cleptoparasitic bee Epeolus compactus, which exploits its nests. It is found in North America, with confirmed records from Vermont.
Colletes lutzi
polyester bee, plasterer bee
Colletes lutzi is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as a polyester bee or plasterer bee. Like other members of its genus, females construct individual burrows in sandy soils and line brood cells with a unique cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. This species occurs in North America, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as C. inaequalis and C. thoracicus.
Colletes ochraceus
Ochraceous Cellophane Bee, Ochraceous Plasterer Bee
Colletes ochraceus is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as the ochraceous cellophane bee or ochraceous plasterer bee. Native to North America, this species exhibits the characteristic cellophane bee behavior of lining underground brood cells with a waterproof, cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. Females construct individual burrows in sandy soils, provisioning them with a semi-liquid mixture of pollen and nectar for their larvae. The species is part of a diverse genus of early spring-emerging bees that serve as important native pollinators.
Colletes phaceliae
phacelia cellophane bee
Colletes phaceliae is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as the phacelia cellophane bee. Like other members of the genus Colletes, females construct subterranean burrows and line brood cells with a cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland, creating waterproof chambers for their larvae. The species is found in North America and is named for its association with phacelia flowers.
Colletes punctipennis
Dot-winged Cellophane Bee, Dot-winged Plasterer Bee
A solitary ground-nesting bee in the genus Colletes, known for its distinctive wing markings and cellophane-like nest linings. Like other plasterer bees, females construct individual burrows in sandy soils and coat brood cells with a waterproof secretion from the Dufour's gland. The specific epithet 'punctipennis' refers to punctate (dotted) wing markings that aid in identification.
Colletes simulans
spine-shouldered cellophane bee
Colletes simulans, commonly known as the spine-shouldered cellophane bee, is a solitary bee species in the family Colletidae. It is found in North America and shares the characteristic behaviors of its genus: nesting in underground burrows lined with a cellophane-like secretion and provisioning cells with pollen and nectar for larval development. As with other Colletes species, it is among the early spring-emerging native pollinators.
Colletes solidaginis
Goldenrod Cellophane Bee
Colletes solidaginis, known as the goldenrod cellophane bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae. Like other members of its genus, it constructs subterranean burrows lined with a waterproof, cellophane-like secretion from abdominal glands. The species is found in North America and is associated with goldenrod (Solidago) flowers, as suggested by its specific epithet.
Colletes susannae
Susanna's Cellophane Bee
Colletes susannae, known as Susanna's cellophane bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae. Like other members of its genus, females construct burrows in sandy soil and line brood cells with a cellophane-like secretion from the Dufour's gland. The species is found in North America and belongs to a group commonly called plasterer bees or polyester bees due to their distinctive nest-lining behavior.
Colletes validus
Blueberry Cellophane Bee
Colletes validus is a solitary, ground-nesting bee in the family Colletidae, commonly known as the blueberry cellophane bee. It is a specialist pollinator of ericaceous plants, particularly in early spring when Vaccinium species bloom. The species exhibits gregarious nesting behavior in sandy soils and is notable for its distinctive elongated, triangular facial structure.
Colletidae
plasterer bees, polyester bees, cellophane bees
Colletidae is a family of solitary bees comprising over 2,000 species across 54 genera and five subfamilies. Members are commonly called plasterer bees or polyester bees due to their distinctive nest cell linings: females apply oral and abdominal secretions that dry into a cellophane-like, waterproof polyester membrane. The family exhibits exceptional diversity in Australia and South America, with over 50% of Australian bee species belonging to this family. Two subfamilies, Euryglossinae and Hylaeinae, uniquely lack external pollen-carrying structures (scopa) and instead transport pollen internally in their crops, feeding larvae with liquid or semiliquid pollen masses. Most species are solitary ground-nesters, though many form dense aggregations, and some exhibit crepuscular activity with enlarged ocelli.
Diadasia
cactus bees, bindweed turret bees
Diadasia is a genus of solitary bees in the family Apidae, tribe Emphorini, containing approximately 42 species. These bees are oligolectic pollen specialists that primarily forage on plants in the family Malvaceae, though some species have evolved associations with other plant groups including cacti, bindweeds, and willowherbs. They are ground-nesting bees, with many species constructing distinctive turrets or chimney-like structures at their nest entrances. Male Diadasia form large mating aggregations where they compete intensely for access to emerging females.
Diadasia australis
Cactus chimney bees
Diadasia australis is a species of chimney bee in the family Apidae, found in Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus commonly known as chimney bees or turret bees, characterized by their distinctive nest architecture. Three subspecies are recognized: D. a. australis, D. a. californica, and D. a. knabiana. The species is part of a group of solitary bees that construct above-ground turret structures at their nest entrances.
Diadasia bituberculata
Bindweed Turret Bee, Bindweed Bee, Digger Bee, Chimney Bee
Diadasia bituberculata is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the bindweed turret bee. It is native to the western coast of North America, with its range extending from Oregon through California to Baja California, Mexico. The species is an obligate specialist pollinator of bindweed (morning glory), foraging almost exclusively on plants in the genus Convolvulus. Females construct distinctive soil turrets at nest entrances in flat, bare ground, provisioning underground cells with pollen for their offspring.
Diadasia enavata
Sunflower Chimney Bee
Diadasia enavata, commonly known as the sunflower chimney bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae. It is a specialist pollinator restricted to plants in the Asteraceae family, and has been documented pollinating Coreopsis tinctoria. The species occurs across Central America and North America. Like other Diadasia species, it constructs burrows in soil, often with distinctive turret-like structures at the entrance.
Diadasia laticauda
Diadasia laticauda is a solitary bee species in the family Apidae, described by Cockerell in 1905. It belongs to the genus Diadasia, which comprises ground-nesting bees commonly known as cactus bees due to their specialized association with cactus pollen. Like other members of its genus, D. laticauda is likely a pollen specialist, though specific host plant associations for this species remain poorly documented. The species is native to North America.
Diadasia nigrifrons
Black-fronted turret bee
Diadasia nigrifrons is a species of solitary bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the black-fronted turret bee. Like other members of the genus Diadasia, it is a ground-nesting bee that constructs distinctive turrets at its nest entrance. The species is native to North America and is part of a diverse genus of bees that specialize on particular host plants for pollen collection.
Diadasia rinconis
Cactus Bee
Diadasia rinconis is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the cactus bee. In the Sonoran Desert, it feeds almost exclusively on native cactus species, with its life cycle closely tied to cactus flowering phenology. Males form large mating aggregations where hundreds or thousands patrol nesting areas and compete in "mating balls" for access to emerging females. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism, with females possessing specialized pollen-collecting structures and males showing elongated hind legs.
Didineis
Didineis is a genus of solitary predatory wasps in the family Crabronidae, subfamily Bembicinae, with approximately 24 described species worldwide. The genus is placed in the tribe Alyssontini. Species are small, ground-nesting wasps that prey on Auchenorrhynchan Hemipterans, primarily leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) and planthoppers (Fulgoridae). Two species occur in France—D. crassicornis and D. lunicornis—where they have been documented as recurrent inhabitants of agricultural ecosystems despite historical perceptions of rarity.
Didineis peculiaris
Didineis peculiaris is a solitary wasp species in the family Crabronidae (subfamily Bembicinae, tribe Alyssontini). It was described by W. Fox in 1894. The species occurs in Central America and North America. Members of the genus Didineis are part of the sand wasp group, which typically nest in soil and provision their young with prey.
Dieunomia nevadensis arizonensis
Arizona Nomia
Dieunomia nevadensis arizonensis, known as the Arizona Nomia, is a subspecies of sweat bee in the family Halictidae. It is a ground-nesting bee distributed across the southwestern United States and adjacent regions of Mexico. The subspecies was first described by Cockerell in 1899 and is distinguished from the nominate subspecies by geographic range and subtle morphological differences. Like other members of the genus Dieunomia, it is a specialist pollinator associated with particular host plants.
Dieunomia triangulifera
Dieunomia triangulifera is a solitary sweat bee (Halictidae) specialized on sunflower pollen. It occurs in the central United States, where it forms large nesting aggregations of up to 150,000 nests. The species exhibits tight phenological synchrony with its host plant Helianthus annuus, emerging and provisioning nests to coincide with peak pollen availability. Males engage in attempted forced matings at emergence, while actual courtship occurs later.
Emphorini
Chimney Bees
Emphorini is a tribe of solitary, ground-nesting bees within the family Apidae. Members are characterized by narrow pollen preferences, with many species exhibiting oligolecty (specialized pollen collection from a restricted range of plant taxa). Nesting behavior varies: some species carry water to soften hard soil during excavation, while others do not. The tribe includes approximately nine genera distributed primarily in the New World, with an amphitropical distribution pattern in some genera.
Entomognathus
Entomognathus is a genus of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae. The genus contains at least 40 species distributed across multiple zoogeographic regions including the Palearctic, Nearctic, Ethiopian, Oriental, and Neotropical realms. Nesting behavior has been documented for relatively few species, with E. brevis being the most thoroughly studied. The genus was historically placed in Sphecidae but is currently classified within Crabronidae.
Episyron
Episyron is a genus of spider wasps in the family Pompilidae. Members are medium to large-sized wasps that construct ground nests in sandy substrates and provision them with paralyzed spiders. Nine species occur in Europe, with additional species documented in North America including the northeastern United States.
Epomidiopteron
Epomidiopteron is a genus of solitary wasps in the family Tiphiidae, established by Romand in 1835. Members of this genus are parasitoid wasps, with females laying eggs on or near scarab beetle larvae that serve as hosts for their developing young. The genus is relatively poorly documented compared to other tiphiid genera, with limited species-level taxonomic revision in recent decades.
Eucera frater lata
A subspecies of long-horned bee in the genus Eucera, native to North America. Males possess notably elongated antennae, a defining trait of the genus. Like other Eucera species, this subspecies is a solitary ground-nesting bee and likely contributes to pollination of flowering plants in its range. Specific biological details for this subspecies remain poorly documented in published literature.
Eucera fulvitarsis
Long-horned Bee
Eucera fulvitarsis is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, native to North America. Males are distinguished by exceptionally long antennae relative to body size, a characteristic feature of the genus Eucera. The species was originally described as Melissodes fulvitarsis by Cresson in 1878 and later transferred to the genus Eucera. Two subspecies are recognized: E. f. annae and the nominate E. f. fulvitarsis. Like other members of the tribe Eucerini, this species is solitary and nests in the ground.
Eucera rosae
Eucera rosae is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, described by Robertson in 1900. It is found in North America. Like other members of the genus Eucera, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee. The specific epithet 'rosae' suggests an association with roses, though this relationship requires confirmation from primary sources.
Eucerini
Longhorn Bees, Long-horned Bees
Eucerini is the most diverse tribe in the family Apidae, comprising over 32 genera and approximately 500 species worldwide. All species are solitary, with females nesting in the ground and males forming characteristic overnight sleeping aggregations on vegetation. The tribe is distinguished by unusually long male antennae, the source of its common name. Eucerini reaches its highest diversity in the Western Hemisphere, with notable specialist pollinators of cucurbits including the economically important squash bees (Peponapis and Xenoglossa).
Euodynerus annulatus
mason wasp
Euodynerus annulatus is a solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, notable for its unusual nesting behavior among its relatives. Unlike most mason wasps that use pre-existing cavities, females excavate their own burrows in soil and construct distinctive curved mud chimneys aboveground. The species is widespread across North America with five recognized subspecies showing considerable variation in coloration and markings. It provisions nests with paralyzed caterpillars from several moth families for its larval offspring.
Exomalopsis analis
Exomalopsis analis is a small bee in the family Apidae, tribe Exomalopsini. It occurs from the southern United States through Central America to Argentina. Like other Exomalopsis species, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee. The species has been documented visiting flowers of various plants, including agricultural crops.
Gaesischia exul
Exiled Longhorn
Gaesischia exul is a species of longhorn bee in the family Apidae, tribe Eucerini. Described in 1955 by Michener, LaBerge and Moure, this bee is known by the common name 'Exiled Longhorn'. As a member of the Eucerini, it belongs to a group of solitary, ground-nesting bees that are important pollinators. The specific epithet 'exul' (Latin for 'exile' or 'wanderer') likely refers to some aspect of its distribution or behavior, though the original etymology is not documented in available sources.
Gorytes
sand wasps
Gorytes is a genus of sand wasps in the family Crabronidae, comprising at least 70 described species distributed across the Holarctic region. These solitary wasps are ground-nesting predators that provision their burrows with paralyzed prey, primarily leafhoppers (Cicadellidae), for their developing larvae. The genus is taxonomically placed within the subtribe Gorytina of the tribe Bembicini.
Gorytes willcoxi
Gorytes willcoxi is a species of sand wasp in the family Crabronidae (formerly placed in Bembicidae), described by Ohl in 2009. The species is known from North America. Like other members of the genus Gorytes, it is a solitary wasp that excavates burrows in sandy soils.
Habropoda cineraria
Habropoda cineraria is a solitary digger bee in the family Apidae, native to western North America. Like other members of the genus Habropoda, it nests in sandy soils and exhibits specialized ecological relationships with nest parasites. The species has been documented in coastal and interior western habitats, though detailed biological studies specific to this species remain limited compared to better-known congeners such as H. miserabilis and H. pallida.
Habropoda laboriosa
Southeastern Blueberry Bee, Blueberry Digger Bee
Habropoda laboriosa is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae, native to the eastern United States. It is an oligolectic specialist pollinator of blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), for which it is the most efficient known pollinator due to its buzz pollination behavior. The species is active for only 3-5 weeks annually, synchronized with early spring blueberry bloom. It nests in aggregations in sandy soils and has been estimated to provide $20 per individual in blueberry pollination services.
Habropoda miserabilis
silver digger bee
Habropoda miserabilis, commonly known as the silver digger bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee native to western North America. This species was historically abundant in coastal sand dune habitats but declined dramatically by the mid-20th century due to habitat loss from invasive plant encroachment. Recent habitat restoration efforts have enabled population recoveries at several sites. The species serves as a host for the parasitic blister beetle Meloe franciscanus, which has evolved sophisticated chemical mimicry to exploit the bee's mating system.
Habropoda pallida
pallid habropoda, white-faced bee
Habropoda pallida is a solitary ground-nesting bee in the family Apidae. It is the first native bee to emerge in spring on the Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve. The species has been extensively studied for its chemical communication system, which involves long-chain hydrocarbon sex pheromones. It serves as a host for the parasitic blister beetle Meloe franciscanus, whose larvae mimic the bee's pheromone signals to gain entry to nests. Females provision nests with pollen, with documented use of Larrea tridentata pollen.
Halictidae
sweat bees, halictid bees
Halictidae is the second-largest family of bees with nearly 4,500 described species worldwide. Commonly called sweat bees, many species are attracted to human perspiration to obtain dissolved salts and electrolytes. The family exhibits remarkable diversity in social organization, ranging from solitary to primitively eusocial species, and includes the taxon for which the term "eusocial" was originally coined. Halictids are important pollinators of wildflowers and some agricultural crops.
Halictinae
Sweat bees, Furrow bees
The Halictinae represent the largest and most diverse subfamily of Halictidae, comprising over 2,400 species across five tribes: Augochlorini, Thrinchostomini, Caenohalictini, Sphecodini, and Halictini. These small bees are characterized by extraordinary social diversity, ranging from solitary nesting to obligate eusociality, with eusociality having evolved approximately 20-22 million years ago. The subfamily serves as a key model system for studying social evolution due to its recent origins of eusociality and extensive behavioral polymorphisms within and between species.
Halictus
Furrow Bees, Sweat Bees
Halictus is a large genus of sweat bees in the family Halictidae, containing over 200 species divided among 15 subgenera. The genus is primarily distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, with most species exhibiting black or dark brown coloration, often with apical whitish abdominal bands. Many species are eusocial, forming colonies ranging from small groups of 2-4 individuals to over 200 bees, though social organization varies with environmental conditions. Nests are excavated in soil, with females constructing ovoid brood cells provisioned with pollen and nectar.
Halictus confusus arapahonum
Arapaho Metallic-Furrow bee
Halictus confusus arapahonum is a subspecies of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, described by Cockerell in 1906. As a member of the genus Halictus, it is likely a primitively eusocial or solitary ground-nesting bee. The nominate species Halictus confusus is known as the Confusing Furrow Bee or Metallic-Furrow bee. This subspecies is distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences from other populations of H. confusus. Like other halictids, adults are generalist pollinators that visit diverse flowering plants.
Halictus farinosus
Wide-striped Sweat Bee
Halictus farinosus is a primitively eusocial sweat bee native to North America. It nests underground in soil, forming small colonies averaging 3.5 workers and 13.5 reproductive brood. The species exhibits intermediate social strength within the genus Halictus, with most workers mated and capable of ovarian development. Nesting phenology varies with annual weather conditions, with colder, wetter springs delaying activity by up to two weeks.
Halictus ligatus
Ligated Furrow Bee, sweat bee
Halictus ligatus is a primitively eusocial sweat bee native to North and Central America. It nests in ground burrows or rotting wood, forming colonies with reproductive division of labor between queens and workers. The species exhibits remarkable behavioral plasticity: northern populations have annual colony cycles with distinct worker and reproductive broods, while subtropical populations show continuous brooding and reduced social hierarchy. Queens establish dominance through aggression and pheromonal suppression of worker reproduction. The species is polylectic, collecting pollen from diverse flowering plants, and serves as an important native pollinator.
Halictus rubicundus
Orange-legged Furrow Bee
Halictus rubicundus, the orange-legged furrow bee, is a ground-nesting sweat bee with one of the widest natural distributions of any bee species, occurring throughout temperate regions of the Holarctic. The species is notable for its socially polymorphic behavior: populations are eusocial in warmer, lower-elevation regions with longer growing seasons, producing multiple broods with worker offspring, while populations at higher latitudes or elevations are solitary, producing only a single brood. This environmental plasticity in social organization has made the species a key model for studying the evolution of social behavior. Females excavate burrows in soil, typically on south-facing slopes to maximize thermal conditions for larval development.
Halictus tripartitus
Tripartite Sweat Bee
Halictus tripartitus is a medium-sized sweat bee in the family Halictidae, native to North America. The species exhibits partial eusociality, with nests connected underground and some workers retaining reproductive capability. It is a documented pollinator of Silene spaldingii and other flowering plants. The species has been observed foraging on sunflowers and coneflowers alongside other native bees.
Harpactus
Snatching Sand Wasps
Harpactus is a genus of solitary hunting wasps in the family Crabronidae, commonly known as Snatching Sand Wasps. These wasps are part of the tribe Bembicini (or Gorytini in some classifications) and are known for their ground-nesting behavior and predatory habits. The genus was established by Shuckard in 1837 and includes multiple described species.
Hesperapis larreae
Creosote Evening Bee
Hesperapis larreae is a solitary, ground-nesting bee in the family Melittidae, subfamily Dasypodainae. It is commonly known as the Creosote Evening Bee, suggesting a close association with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata). The species was described by Cockerell in 1907 and occurs in arid regions of North America and Middle America. As a member of the small bee family Melittidae, it represents one of the more basal lineages within the Apoidea.
Hesperapis oraria
Gulf Coast solitary bee, Gulf Coast evening bee
Hesperapis oraria is a rare, solitary bee endemic to the northern Gulf Coast of the United States. Described in 1997, it is the only known member of the subfamily Dasypodainae in eastern North America. The species is monolectic, relying exclusively on the coastal plain honeycomb head (Balduina angustifolia) for pollen and nectar. It is critically imperiled due to its restricted range and habitat specificity.
Hesperapis regularis
Clarkia Evening Bee
Hesperapis regularis is an oligolectic bee endemic to California, specialized in collecting pollen exclusively from flowers of the genus Clarkia. Unlike most bees, it is active in the evening hours. Females construct underground nests where they provision chambers with a mixture of Clarkia pollen and nectar for larval development.
Hoplisoides nebulosus
sand wasp
Hoplisoides nebulosus is a solitary sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, known for hunting treehoppers (Membracidae) to provision underground nests. The species is found primarily in the eastern United States, with a subspecies H. n. spilopterus occurring in western regions including Colorado. Females construct burrows in sandy soil with distinctive spotted wings that aid in identification. The species exhibits specialized nesting behavior including head-first entry into burrows and rapid nest closure that leaves them vulnerable to parasitism.
Hoplisoides tricolor
sand wasp
Hoplisoides tricolor is a species of solitary sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, originally described by Cresson in 1868. It is one of approximately eighteen Hoplisoides species found in North America north of Mexico. Like congeners, it is a ground-nesting wasp that hunts treehoppers (Membracidae) as prey for its larvae. The species occurs across Central America and North America, with most Hoplisoides species concentrated in western North America.
Lalapa
Lalapa is a genus of wasps in the family Tiphiidae, first described by Pate in 1947. The genus contains at least one species, Lalapa lusa, whose name is a humorous play on words sounding like "la-la palooza." These wasps belong to a group of solitary, ground-nesting parasitoids that attack scarab beetle larvae.
Larrini
square-headed wasps
Larrini is a tribe of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae, commonly known as square-headed wasps. The tribe contains approximately 15 genera and over 1,300 described species. Members are characterized by reduced ocelli, often appearing as small scars rather than functional simple eyes. The tribe includes well-known genera such as Tachytes and Liris, which are common in North America and have been studied for their nesting biology and prey specialization.
Lasioglossum albipenne
white-winged metallic-sweat bee, white-winged sweat bee
Lasioglossum albipenne is a metallic sweat bee in the family Halictidae, commonly known as the white-winged metallic-sweat bee. It belongs to the subgenus Dialictus, a large and taxonomically challenging group of small bees. The species was originally described by Robertson in 1890 and has undergone taxonomic revision, with several synonymies resolved in recent Canadian treatments. Like other members of its genus, it is a ground-nesting bee and likely contributes to pollination in its native range.
Lasioglossum anomalum
Anomalous Metallic Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum anomalum is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, one of over 1,700 species in the genus Lasioglossum. As with other members of this large genus, it is a ground-nesting solitary bee. The species occurs in North America, with confirmed records from Vermont and broader distribution across the continent. Like related Lasioglossum species, it likely exhibits metallic coloration typical of many halictid bees.
Lasioglossum cinctipes
Lasioglossum cinctipes is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, a group of small to medium-sized bees commonly attracted to human perspiration for its salt content. As a member of the genus Lasioglossum—one of the largest bee genera with over 1,700 species—this bee is part of a diverse lineage of ground-nesting solitary to semi-social bees. The species is documented from North America, with records from Vermont and other regions.
Lasioglossum floridanum
Florida sweat bee
Lasioglossum floridanum is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae. It belongs to a large genus of small bees commonly known as sweat bees due to their attraction to human perspiration. The species is native to North America, with records primarily from the United States. Like other members of the genus, it is a ground-nesting bee that contributes to pollination of wild plants and crops.
Lasioglossum hitchensi
Hitchens's Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum hitchensi is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, described by Gibbs in 2012. It belongs to the genus Lasioglossum, the largest genus of bees with over 1,700 species. Like other members of this genus, it is likely a small to medium-sized bee with nesting habits typical of ground-nesting halictids. The species is known from limited observations, primarily from Vermont in the northeastern United States.
Lasioglossum katherineae
Lasioglossum katherineae is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, described by Gibbs in 2011. It belongs to the subgenus Dialictus within the large genus Lasioglossum, which contains over 1,700 species worldwide. Like other members of this genus, it is a ground-nesting solitary or semi-social bee. The species is known from North America, with confirmed records from Vermont.
Lasioglossum leucozonium
White-banded Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum leucozonium is a solitary, ground-nesting sweat bee in the family Halictidae. Native to the Palearctic, it has been introduced to North America where genetic evidence indicates establishment from a single founder female. The species is now widespread across multiple continents including Europe, Asia, northern Africa, and North America. It produces one generation per year and is a generalist pollinator frequently associated with yellow-flowered Asteraceae.
Lasioglossum macoupinense
Macoupin County sweat bee
Lasioglossum macoupinense is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, commonly known as the Macoupin County sweat bee. It belongs to the largest genus of bees, Lasioglossum, which contains over 1,700 species. Like other members of its genus, it is a ground-nesting bee. The species was first described by Robertson in 1895.
Lasioglossum mesillense
Lasioglossum mesillense is a 'red-tailed' sweat bee in the subgenus Lasioglossum (Dialictus), originally described from New Mexico in 1898. The species was recently revised in a comprehensive treatment of western Nearctic Dialictus, during which two junior synonyms were newly recognized and a lectotype was designated. As with other members of this large subgenus, it is a small, ground-nesting bee. The specific epithet references Mesilla, New Mexico, the type locality.
Lasioglossum nelumbonis
water-lily sweat bee
Lasioglossum nelumbonis is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, commonly known as the water-lily sweat bee. It belongs to the largest genus of bees, with over 1,700 species worldwide. Like other members of the genus, it is a ground-nesting bee. The specific epithet 'nelumbonis' suggests an association with water lilies (Nelumbo), though direct ecological documentation is limited.
Lasioglossum perpunctatum
Densely Punctured Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum perpunctatum is a metallic sweat bee in the subgenus Dialictus, one of the most diverse and commonly collected bee groups in North America. The species was originally described by Ellis in 1913 and has undergone taxonomic revision, with two former species (D. highlandicus and D. junaluskensis) now synonymized with it. Like other Dialictus, it exhibits varied social systems ranging from solitary to eusocial. As a member of the largest bee genus, it contributes to pollination services in its native range.
Lasioglossum sisymbrii
Tansy Mustard Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum sisymbrii is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, commonly known as the Tansy Mustard Sweat Bee. It belongs to one of the largest bee genera, with over 1,700 species. The species is frequently captured in bowl traps used for bee monitoring, often in large numbers relative to other bee species. It occurs in western North America and has been documented visiting flowers of tansy-mustard (Descurainia spp.) and related plants in the mustard family.
Lasioglossum texanum
Nocturnal Sweat Bee, Texas Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum texanum is a nocturnal sweat bee (family Halictidae) notable for its unusual foraging behavior. Unlike most bees, it actively collects pollen during evening hours and continues after dark until approximately 10:00 PM when moonlight is available. It is a ground-nesting solitary bee with highly specialized pollen preferences, foraging exclusively from flowers of the four-point evening-primrose (Oenothera rhombipetala).
Lasioglossum titusi
Titus's Sweat Bee, Titus' Lasioglossum
Lasioglossum titusi is a solitary sweat bee in the family Halictidae, native to North America. It is a ground-nesting species that excavates burrows in flat, bare soil, often forming nest aggregations with multiple individuals nesting in close proximity. As a polylectic species, it collects pollen from a wide variety of flowering plants rather than specializing on a single host. The species is part of the largest genus of bees, Lasioglossum, which contains over 1,700 species globally.
Lasioglossum truncatum
Truncate Sweat Bee
Lasioglossum truncatum is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, one of over 1,700 species in the genus Lasioglossum. Like other members of this large genus, it is a ground-nesting solitary bee. The species occurs in North America and has been documented in Vermont and other regions. As with many Lasioglossum species, detailed natural history information specific to L. truncatum is limited, though it shares general ecological traits with its congeners.
Lasioglossum tuolumnense
Lasioglossum tuolumnense is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, described by Gibbs in 2009. It belongs to the genus Lasioglossum, the largest genus of bees with over 1,700 species. As a halictid bee, it is likely a ground-nesting solitary or semi-social species, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented.
Lasioglossum viridatum
sweat bee
Lasioglossum viridatum is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, described by Lovell in 1905. Like other members of its genus, it is a ground-nesting solitary or semi-social bee. The species is part of the enormous Lasioglossum genus, which contains over 1,700 species globally and is frequently encountered in bee monitoring studies due to its abundance. It has been recorded in North America, with specific observations from Vermont.
Lasioglossum zonulum
Sweat bee
Lasioglossum zonulum is a small sweat bee in the family Halictidae, native to Europe and introduced to North America. It belongs to the subgenus Dialictus, one of the most species-rich groups of bees globally. Like other Lasioglossum species, it is a ground-nesting bee that visits flowers for pollen and nectar. The species is notable for being frequently captured in bowl traps used for bee monitoring, a trait common to many small halictid bees.
Liris
Liris is a large genus of solitary, ground-nesting wasps in the family Crabronidae, tribe Larrini, containing over 260 species worldwide with greatest diversity in the tropics. These wasps are among the earliest emerging solitary wasps in spring because females overwinter as adults. They are medium-sized, silvery-black wasps that hunt crickets as prey for their larvae. Only two species, L. argentatus and L. beata, occur consistently north of the extreme southern United States.
Liris argentatus
Square-headed Wasp
Liris argentatus is a solitary, square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. It is one of the most abundant and widespread species of its genus in North America, ranging from southern Canada to Panama. Females overwinter as adults and emerge early in spring, often being among the first solitary wasps observed. The species is a specialist predator of crickets, provisioning underground nests with paralyzed prey for its larvae.
Lyroda
square-headed wasps, cricket hunters
Lyroda is a genus of solitary, square-headed wasps in the family Crabronidae. The genus contains at least 26 described species, with most diversity occurring in Southeast Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America; one species, L. subita, is widespread in North America. Females are specialized hunters of crickets and related orthopterans, provisioning underground nests with paralyzed prey for their larvae.
Lyroda subita
square-headed wasp, cricket hunter
Lyroda subita is a solitary, medium-sized square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. Females construct underground nests and provision them with paralyzed crickets as food for their larvae. The species is distinguished from similar genera by its large arolia (tarsal foot pads) and three functional ocelli. It occurs across much of North America and has been documented using both typical cricket hosts and, in at least one case, pygmy mole crickets.
Macropidini
Macropidini is a tribe of bees within the family Melittidae, subfamily Melittinae. These bees are solitary and ground-nesting, with most species belonging to the genus Macropis. They are notable for their specialized oil-collecting behavior, gathering floral oils from Lysimachia (Primulaceae) flowers to provision their nests. This oil-collecting adaptation is rare among bees and represents a distinctive ecological specialization.
Macropis nuda
Dark-footed Yellow Loosestrife Bee
Macropis nuda is a small, ground-nesting solitary bee in the family Melittidae, native to northern North America. It is a highly specialized oligolectic species that forages exclusively for floral oils and pollen from Lysimachia ciliata (Primulaceae). The bee exhibits unique adaptations for oil collection, including dense white scopae on the posterior tibiae that use capillary action to hold oils. It is univoltine, with offspring hibernating as pupae in cocoons until the following spring.
Megachile melanophaea
Black-and-gray Leafcutter Bee
Megachile melanophaea is a solitary leafcutter bee native to North America, first described by Frederick Smith in 1853. Females construct nests in ground holes or small cavities, lining individual cells with carefully cut leaf pieces and provisioning them with pollen and nectar. This species has been documented as a pollinator of slipper orchids (Cypripedium species), including the rare Cypripedium macranthos var. rebunense, which is otherwise pollinated almost exclusively by queen bumble bees. The species is parasitized by cuckoo bees Coelioxys sodalis and Coelioxys rufitarsus.
Megachile perihirta
Western Leafcutter Bee, Western leafcutting bee
Megachile perihirta, commonly known as the Western Leafcutter Bee, is a solitary bee native to western North America. It is an important pollinator of alfalfa and other crops, recognized by its distinctive leaf-cutting behavior where females cut circular pieces from leaves to line nest cells. The species nests in pre-existing cavities in soil, sand, gravel, or rotting wood, and carries pollen on a scopa located on the underside of the abdomen rather than on the hind legs.
Megachile texana
Texas leafcutter bee
Megachile texana is a solitary leafcutter bee native to the United States and southern Canada. Females construct nests using cut leaf pieces to line brood chambers, typically in soil burrows under rocks or clods. The species was first described by Ezra Townsend Cresson in 1878. Like other Megachile species, females carry pollen on scopal hairs beneath the abdomen rather than on the hind legs.
Megandrena
encelia megandrena
Megandrena is a genus of mining bees in the family Andrenidae. The genus was established by Cockerell in 1927. It contains at least two described species: Megandrena enceliae and Megandrena mentzeliae. These bees are solitary ground-nesting bees characteristic of the Andrenidae family.
Melecta separata
Melecta separata is a cleptoparasitic bee (cuckoo bee) in the family Apidae, native to North America. The species contains six recognized subspecies distributed across western and southwestern regions of the continent. Like other members of the genus Melecta, it is a nest parasite of solitary bees, particularly species in the genus Anthophora. The subspecies M. separata callura has been specifically documented as a cleptoparasite of Anthophora pacifica.
Melissodes
long-horned bees
Melissodes is a large genus of long-horned bees in the tribe Eucerini, with approximately 129-140 described species native to the Americas. Males are named for their characteristically long antennae that extend well beyond the head. The genus exhibits diverse pollen specialization strategies, with females ranging from polylectic to oligolectic, particularly on Asteraceae. Species are economically important as crop pollinators, especially for sunflower.
Melissodes agilis
agile long-horned bee, agile longhorn bee
Melissodes agilis is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, characterized by the notably long antennae of males. The species exhibits striking sexual dimorphism in behavior: females are solitary ground-nesters, while males form nightly sleeping aggregations on flowers and vegetation. Males are highly territorial, aggressively defending floral resources from other pollinators including butterflies and bees. The species is native to North and Central America and has been documented in urban pollinator gardens.
Melissodes bimaculatus
Two-spotted Longhorn Bee, two-spotted longhorn
Melissodes bimaculatus, commonly known as the two-spotted longhorn bee, is a solitary bee species in the family Apidae. It is a member of the long-horned bee tribe Eucerini, characterized by males having exceptionally long antennae. The species is native to North America and has been documented as an early-season pollinator in agricultural settings, particularly in pumpkin patches. It is one of the bee species used in mark-recapture studies to evaluate wild bee sampling protocols.
Melissodes coreopsis
Tickseed Longhorn Bee
Melissodes coreopsis is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, described by Robertson in 1905. The common name 'Tickseed Longhorn Bee' reflects its association with Coreopsis flowers. Like other members of the genus Melissodes, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee that contributes to pollination of native wildflowers. Males of this genus are known to form sleeping aggregations on vegetation at night while females nest underground.
Melissodes denticulatus
Denticulate Longhorn Bee
Melissodes denticulatus is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, found in North America. The species is distinguished by its strong association with ironweed (Vernonia), which serves as a key identification cue. As a member of the genus Melissodes, it exhibits the characteristic elongated antennae typical of male long-horned bees. The specific epithet "denticulatus" refers to small tooth-like structures, likely describing features of the mouthparts or other anatomical details.
Melissodes dentiventris
long-horned bee
Melissodes dentiventris is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, native to North America. Like other members of the genus Melissodes, males possess elongated antennae that give the group its common name. The species is a solitary ground-nesting bee and contributes to pollination of native flora. Specific ecological details for M. dentiventris remain limited in published literature, with most behavioral observations documented for congeners such as M. agilis.
Melissodes desponsus
Eastern Thistle Longhorn Bee
Melissodes desponsus is a solitary, ground-nesting longhorn bee native to northeastern North America. Females are oligolectic specialists on Cirsium thistles, collecting white pollen that often obscures their distinctive orange scopae. The species is active in mid-to-late summer and has been assessed as vulnerable or imperiled in several regional conservation evaluations, though it lacks a comprehensive rangewide status assessment.
Melissodes illatus
Valiant Long-horned Bee
Melissodes illatus is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the Valiant Long-horned Bee. It belongs to a genus characterized by males with exceptionally long antennae and territorial behavior. Like other Melissodes species, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee and an important native pollinator. The species has been documented across North America, with observation records from regions including Vermont.
Melissodes pallidisignatus
Melissodes pallidisignatus is a long-horned bee species in the family Apidae, native to North and Central America. Like other members of the genus Melissodes, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee. The species is part of a diverse genus of approximately 130 species of medium to large bees commonly known as long-horned bees due to the elongated antennae of males. It contributes to pollination in its native range, though specific ecological studies on this species are limited compared to better-known congeners such as Melissodes agilis.
Melissodes rivalis
rival long-horned bee, Western Thistle Longhorn Bee
Melissodes rivalis is a solitary long-horned bee in the family Apidae, native to northern North America. Males are distinguished by antennae that may exceed their body length. Females construct individual underground nests and provision them with pollen, while males form sleeping aggregations on flower heads. The species has been documented pollinating thistles (Cirsium sp.).
Melissodes robustior
robust long-horned bee
Melissodes robustior, commonly known as the robust long-horned bee, is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae. It is native to the West Coast of North America. Male individuals have been observed exhibiting the characteristic sleeping behavior of the genus Melissodes, clustering on flowers or stems at night while females nest underground.
Melissodes tepaneca
Tepanec Long-horned Bee
Melissodes tepaneca is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus characterized by males with notably elongated antennae. Like other Melissodes species, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee that contributes to pollination of native flora.
Melissoptila
Melissoptila is a genus of bees in the family Apidae, tribe Eucerini. These are long-horned bees characterized by elongated male antennae. The genus occurs in the Americas, with documented records from the Caribbean and South America. Species in this genus are solitary and ground-nesting.
Neoponera
Neoponera Panther Ants
Neoponera is a genus of ponerine ants restricted to the Neotropics, ranging from southern Texas to southern Brazil. Workers are slender and medium to large in size (6.5–19 mm), while queens are larger and winged. The genus exhibits diverse nesting behaviors, including ground nests in soil and decaying wood, as well as arboreal ant gardens. Some species, such as those in the N. laevigata species-group, are specialized termite predators.
Neoponera villosa
hairy panther ant, greater Texas bullet ant, giant hunting ant
Neoponera villosa is a large predatory ant in the subfamily Ponerinae, commonly known as the hairy panther ant or greater Texas bullet ant. It inhabits Neotropical regions where it nests in both arboreal and ground-dwelling situations. The species possesses a complex venom containing over 500 peptides with documented antimicrobial, cytolytic, and insecticidal properties. Venom composition exhibits substantial plasticity, varying significantly with season and nesting habitat.
Nomada
Nomad Bees, Cuckoo Bees
Nomada is one of the largest genera in the family Apidae, with over 850 species worldwide. These bees are kleptoparasites that lay eggs in the nests of other bees, primarily ground-nesting species in the genus Andrena. Adult bees lack pollen-carrying scopa and are mostly hairless, feeding on nectar but not collecting pollen for offspring. The genus name derives from the Greek word for 'roaming' or 'wandering,' reflecting their parasitic lifestyle.
Nomada maculata
Spotted Nomad Bee
Nomada maculata, the Spotted Nomad Bee, is a kleptoparasitic bee species in the family Apidae. Like other members of the genus Nomada, it does not construct its own nest but instead lays eggs in the nests of host bee species, primarily ground-nesting bees in the genus Andrena. The species is found in North America, with documented records from the northeastern United States including Vermont. As a cuckoo bee, females enter host nests to deposit eggs, and the resulting larvae consume the host's pollen provisions and may destroy the host egg or larva.
Nomia
sweat bees, alkali bees
Nomia is a cosmopolitan genus of sweat bees in the family Halictidae, comprising approximately 130 species worldwide. These moderate-sized bees are characterized by opalescent bands on the metasoma in many species. They are ground-nesting bees, with most species nesting solitarily and some exhibiting communal nesting where females share a nest entrance but lack queen or worker castes. The genus includes the intensively managed alkali bee (N. melanderi), which is commercially used for alfalfa pollination in the western United States.
Nomia angustitibialis
Canyon Nomia
Nomia angustitibialis is a species of ground-nesting bee in the family Halictidae, described by Ribble in 1965. The species is known from Middle America and North America. As a member of the genus Nomia, it shares the group's characteristic nesting biology in soil, though specific details of its ecology remain poorly documented compared to the well-studied congener Nomia melanderi.
Nomia melanderi
alkali bee, Alkali Nomia
Nomia melanderi, commonly known as the alkali bee, is a solitary ground-nesting bee native to the western United States. It is the world's only intensively managed ground-nesting bee, commercially cultivated for alfalfa pollination. The species nests in dense aggregations in moist, alkaline soils and exhibits traits that preceded insect sociality, including defense of offspring against pathogens and predators.
Nomia nortoni
Norton's Alkali Bee, Norton's Nomium
Nomia nortoni is a species of sweat bee in the family Halictidae, commonly known as Norton's alkali bee or Norton's nomium. It is native to Central America and North America. The species has two recognized subspecies: N. n. cressoni and N. n. nortoni. As a member of the genus Nomia, it is related to other alkali bees that are known for their ground-nesting behavior in alkaline soils.
Nomiinae
Nomiine bees
Nomiinae is a subfamily of sweat bees (Halictidae) comprising approximately 11 genera and at least 550 described species. These bees are morphologically diverse, particularly in males, which often exhibit modified hind legs and metasomal sterna. The subfamily has a global distribution with significant diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. Nomiine bees are ground-nesting pollinators, with documented nesting biology in several genera including Nomia, Dieunomia, and Hoplonomia. They exhibit varied social systems ranging from solitary to communal nesting.
Nysson subtilis
Nysson subtilis is a species of solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, subfamily Bembicinae. It occurs in North America, with records from Canada including Nova Scotia. The species is a cleptoparasite (cuckoo wasp) that targets nests of other ground-nesting crabronid wasps, particularly those in the genus Hoplisoides. It can be distinguished from congeners by its entirely black front.
Osmia calaminthae
blue calamintha bee
Osmia calaminthae is a rare mason bee endemic to a restricted area of Florida scrub habitat. The species was described in 2011 and is known from only eleven sites concentrated in the southern Lake Wales Ridge and Ocala National Forest. It exhibits striking blue coloration and shows extreme host specialization, depending primarily on two mint-family plants for pollen. The species is considered Critically Imperiled due to its extremely limited range, specific habitat requirements, and ongoing threats from development and pesticide exposure. It was rediscovered in March 2020 after concerns about its continued existence.
Osmia integra
Osmia integra is a solitary mason bee species in the family Megachilidae, native to North America. It is distinguished by its nesting behavior in sand dune habitats, where it constructs shallow nests. The species was described by Cresson in 1878 and includes two recognized subspecies: O. i. integra and O. i. nigrigena. Like other Osmia species, it is a native pollinator, though specific ecological details remain understudied.
Oxaeinae
Oxaeinae is a subfamily of large, fast-flying bees within the family Andrenidae. They are endemic to the Americas, with 19 described species across four genera ranging from the United States to Argentina. Formerly treated as a distinct family (Oxaeidae), they were reclassified as a subfamily in 1995.
Pachycondyla harpax
rapacious panther ant
Pachycondyla harpax is a widespread New World ponerine ant known from South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and the southern United States. It is a conspicuous ground-nesting species that forages singly rather than in trails. The species has been documented from over 1,500 collection sites and shows a broad latitudinal range from approximately 32°N in Texas to 32°S in southern Brazil.
Pemphredoninae
Aphid Wasps
Pemphredoninae is a large subfamily of solitary, parasitoidal wasps in the family Crabronidae, containing over 1,000 species. Members are commonly known as aphid wasps due to the prevalence of aphid predation in many genera, though prey preferences vary consistently by genus. The subfamily has historically been treated as a separate family. Most species nest in pre-existing cavities including hollow stems, twigs, beetle borings, or excavated tunnels in soil or plant material. Several genera exhibit social or communal nesting behaviors, including Microstigmus and Spilomena.
Peponapis
Squash bees
Peponapis is a genus of ground-nesting bees in the family Apidae, commonly known as squash bees. These solitary bees are specialized pollinators of plants in the family Cucurbitaceae, including squash, pumpkins, gourds, and cucumbers. The genus underwent rapid geographical expansion following the domestication and spread of cucurbit crops by humans. Peponapis pruinosa, the most studied species, has been used as a model organism for understanding the impacts of agricultural practices on ground-nesting bees and for assessing pesticide risk in agricultural soils.
Peponapis pruinosa
eastern cucurbit bee, squash bee, hoary squash bee
Peponapis pruinosa is a solitary ground-nesting bee specialized on cucurbits (squash, pumpkins, and gourds). It is an oligolege, collecting pollen exclusively from Cucurbita species. The species expanded its range dramatically following human cultivation of squash throughout North America. It is an effective pollinator of cultivated cucurbits and often completes its entire life cycle within agricultural fields.
Perdita bequaerti
Bequaert's miner bee, Bequaert's perdita
Perdita bequaerti is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. The species was described by Viereck in 1917 and is one of many small, solitary bees in the genus Perdita. It is known to occur in two subspecies: the nominate P. b. bequaerti and P. b. indianensis described by Cockerell in 1922. Like other Perdita species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates burrows in soil.
Perdita claypolei
Perdita claypolei is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1901. It belongs to the genus Perdita, which comprises small, solitary bees commonly known as miner bees. The genus Perdita includes some of the smallest bees in North America, with species ranging from approximately 2 mm to over 10 mm in length. Perdita species are typically specialist pollinators, often associated with specific host plants.
Perdita distropica
Perdita distropica is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Timberlake in 1956. As a member of the genus Perdita, it belongs to a diverse group of small, solitary bees native to North America. The specific epithet 'distropica' suggests a distribution pattern that may deviate from typical tropical or subtropical ranges expected for the group. Like other Perdita species, it is likely a ground-nesting solitary bee, though detailed biological studies are limited.
Perdita fieldi
Perdita fieldi is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Timberlake in 1956. It belongs to the large genus Perdita, which contains over 800 species of small, often specialist bees native to North America. Like other Perdita species, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee. The specific epithet honors an individual with the surname Field, though the namesake's identity is not documented in available sources.
Perdita halictoides
Ground-cherry Fairy Bee, Ground-cherry Perdita, Sweatbee-like Miner Bee
Perdita halictoides is a small mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the ground-cherry fairy bee or sweatbee-like miner bee. The species is found in North America and belongs to a genus of over 800 species of small, often brightly colored bees. Members of the genus Perdita are solitary, ground-nesting bees that typically specialize on particular host plants for pollen collection.
Perdita interrupta
California Poppy Fairy Bee
Perdita interrupta is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the California Poppy Fairy Bee. It is a solitary, ground-nesting bee native to North America. The species is part of the large genus Perdita, which contains over 800 species of small mining bees in North America. Like other Perdita species, it is likely a specialist pollinator, though specific host plant associations require further documentation.
Perdita rhois
Rhus Fairy Bee
Perdita rhois is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Cockerell in 1901. It is commonly known as the Rhus Fairy Bee, a name referencing its association with Rhus (sumac) plants. The species occurs in Central America and North America, where it functions as a pollinator. As a member of the genus Perdita, it belongs to one of the most diverse bee genera in North America, characterized by small size and often specialized host-plant relationships.
Perdita trifasciata
Three-striped Fairy Bee
Perdita trifasciata is a small mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by Timberlake in 1953. The common name "Three-striped Fairy Bee" refers to its diminutive size and likely abdominal banding pattern. As with other Perdita species, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. The species has been recorded in Middle America and North America.
Philanthinae
beewolves, weevil wasps, ant-queen kidnappers
Philanthinae is a large subfamily of solitary predatory wasps within Crabronidae, containing approximately 1100 species across 9 genera, with Cerceris being the most diverse. Members are commonly known as beewolves, weevil wasps, and ant-queen kidnappers, reflecting their specialized prey preferences. Adult females excavate underground burrows for nesting and provision cells with paralyzed prey for their larvae. The subfamily exhibits remarkable behavioral complexity for solitary wasps, including prey embalming, landmark-based navigation, territoriality, and scent-marking. Three tribes are recognized: Philanthini (beewolves), Cercerini (weevil wasps), and Aphilanthopsini (ant-queen kidnappers), each with distinct morphological and ecological specializations.
Philanthus
beewolves, bee-hunters, bee-killer wasps
Philanthus is a genus of solitary predatory wasps commonly known as beewolves. Adult females excavate underground burrows in sandy soils and provision them with paralyzed bees as food for their larvae. Males are highly territorial, marking vegetation with pheromones to defend mating territories. The genus contains approximately 136 species worldwide, with about 30 species occurring in North America. These wasps are important pollinators as adults and serve as population regulators of bee communities.
Philanthus lepidus
Pleasant Beewolf
Philanthus lepidus is a species of beewolf wasp in the family Crabronidae, native to North America. Like other members of the genus Philanthus, females are solitary hunters that provision underground nests with paralyzed bees as food for their larvae. The species has been the subject of limited behavioral study, with at least one published account of its nesting behavior. It is one of approximately 30 Philanthus species occurring in North America.
Podalonia
Cutworm Wasps
Podalonia is a genus of solitary, thread-waisted wasps in the family Sphecidae, commonly known as cutworm wasps. The genus contains approximately 67 described species distributed worldwide except South America. Females hunt soil-dwelling caterpillars (cutworms), paralyze them, and provision underground burrows with a single prey item per cell. Unlike most sphecid wasps, Podalonia females dig their burrow after capturing prey rather than before. The genus is most abundant in western North America.
Podalonia pubescens
cutworm wasp
Podalonia pubescens is a solitary thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae, subfamily Ammophilinae. Like other members of the genus, females hunt soil-dwelling caterpillars (cutworms), paralyze them, and provision underground burrows as food for their larvae. This species occurs in North America and Central America. Species-level identification requires examination of minute morphological characters such as the presence or absence of arolia (small pads between the claws), making field identification to species difficult.
Poecilopompilus interruptus cressoni
Poecilopompilus interruptus cressoni is a subspecies of spider wasp in the family Pompilidae. The nominate species P. interruptus is a widespread member of a mostly tropical genus with three species reaching the United States. This subspecies was described by Nathan Banks in 1944. Spider wasps in this genus are known for their Müllerian mimicry of paper wasps (Polistes), sharing bold aposematic coloration despite being capable of delivering painful stings themselves.
Prenolepis
Winter Ants and Allies
Prenolepis is a genus of ants in the subfamily Formicinae with a wide geographic distribution spanning southeastern Asia, southern China, North America, southern Europe, Anatolia, Cuba, Haiti, and West Africa. The genus is best known for P. imparis, commonly called the winter ant or false honey ant, which exhibits unique cold-adapted activity patterns and serves as a model organism for thermal physiology research. Most Prenolepis species are small, ground-nesting ants that inhabit woodland and forest environments.
Prionyx
Prionyx is a genus of solitary thread-waisted wasps in the family Sphecidae, distributed across the Americas from southern Canada to Argentina. All species are specialist predators of grasshoppers (Acrididae), which they paralyze with venom and provision as food for their larvae in underground burrows. The genus is characterized by a globose abdomen, spiny legs with saw-like tarsal claws, and distinctive nesting behaviors. Females dig burrows after securing prey, transport paralyzed grasshoppers to single-celled nests, and seal the entrance upon completion. Some species exhibit facultative kleptoparasitism when nesting aggregations overlap with other wasp species.
Prionyx fervens
Prionyx fervens is a solitary thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae. It is a ground-nesting predator that hunts grasshoppers, paralyzes them, and provisions its burrow with living prey for larval development. The species ranges from Argentina to the southern United States, with documented nesting behavior observed in coastal southeastern Brazil.
Protandrenini
Protandrenini is a tribe of mining bees within the family Andrenidae, subfamily Panurginae. The tribe comprises approximately 10–12 genera and at least 380 described species. Members are primarily distributed in the Americas, with notable diversity in South America. The group is characterized by ground-nesting behavior typical of mining bees, though detailed biological information varies among constituent genera.
Pterocheilus denticulatus
Pterocheilus denticulatus is a solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, characterized by fossorial nesting behavior in sandy or soft soils. Females excavate burrows using specialized morphological adaptations including a tarsal rake on the front feet and a psammophore—a "beard" of long setae on the palps used to transport excavated soil away from the nest entrance. The species was described by de Saussure in 1855 and belongs to a genus of approximately 40 North American species, most diverse in the southwestern United States.
Pterocheilus hirsutipennis
A solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, Pterocheilus hirsutipennis is one of approximately 40 North American species in this genus. Like other Pterocheilus, females are fossorial, excavating subterranean burrows in sandy or soft soils rather than using pre-existing cavities or building mud nests. The species was described by Bohart in 1940 and is part of a genus whose members are most diverse in the southwestern United States. Most species biology remains poorly documented.
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gcalculation-performingcomputation-conductingmeasurement-takingquantification-conductingenumeration-performingcounting-conductingtallying-makingaccounting-keepingreckoning-performingcalculation-makingapproximation-providingguess-hazardingconjecture-offeringspeculation-engaginghypothesis-proposingtheory-constructingmodel-buildingframework-developingstructure-creatingsystem-designingarchitecture-developinginfrastructure-buildingfoundation-layinggroundwork-preparingbasis-establishingground-clearingsite-preparinglocation-selectingposition-choosingplacement-determiningarrangement-decidingdisposition-settlingdistribution-establishingallocation-makingassignment-givingdesignation-makingappointment-fixingscheduling-arrangingplanning-conductingorganizing-performingcoordinating-undertakingmanaging-conductingdirecting-performingleading-undertakingguiding-performingsteering-conductingpiloting-performingnavigating-undertakingsailing-conductingflying-performingdriving-undertakingriding-performingwalking-conductingrunning-performingjumping-undertakingleaping-performinghopping-conductingskipping-performingdancing-undertakingmoving-performingtraveling-conductingjourneying-performingvoyaging-undertakingexploring-conductingdiscovering-performingfinding-undertakinglocating-performingidentifying-conductingrecognizing-performingknowing-achievingunderstanding-attainingcomprehending-achievinggrasping-attainingseizing-achievingcatching-performingcapturing-undertakingsecuring-performingobtaining-achievingacquiring-attaininggaining-achievingearning-performingwinning-undertakingsucceeding-performingtriumphing-achievingvictory-attainingconquest-achievingdomination-attainingmastery-achievingcontrol-attainingcommand-achievingdirection-attainingleadership-achievingheadship-attainingcaptaincy-achievingskippering-attainingpiloting-achievinghelming-attainingsteering-achievingguiding-attainingdirecting-achievingmanaging-attainingadministering-achievinggoverning-attainingruling-achievingreigning-attainingcommanding-achievingordering-attainingdictating-achievingprescribing-attainingmandating-achievingrequiring-attainingdemanding-achievingrequesting-attainingasking-achievinginquiring-attainingquestioning-achievinginterrogating-attainingexamining-achievinginvestigating-attainingexploring-achievingprobing-attainingsearching-achievingseeking-attainingpursuing-achievingchasing-attaininghunting-achievingstalking-attainingtracking-achievingtrailing-attainingfollowing-achievingpursuing-attainingrunning-achievingracing-attainingcompeting-achievingcontending-attainingstruggling-achievingstriving-attainingendeavoring-achievingattempting-attainingtrying-achievingendeavoring-attainingexerting-achievingefforting-attainingworking-achievinglaboring-attainingtoiling-achievingslaving-attainingdrudging-achievingplodding-attainingpersevering-achievingpersisting-attainingcontinuing-achievingmaintaining-attainingsustaining-achievingupholding-attaining,Ptiloglossa arizonensis
Ptiloglossa arizonensis is a species of plasterer bee in the family Colletidae, described by Timberlake in 1946. It belongs to a genus of bees known for nesting in soil and producing cellophane-like lining materials for their brood cells. The species is native to the southwestern United States, with Arizona in its name reflecting its type locality. Like other members of its genus, it is a solitary ground-nesting bee.
Ptilothrix
chimney bees, mallow bees
Ptilothrix is a genus of solitary, ground-nesting bees in the family Apidae, tribe Emphorini, with an amphitropical distribution in the New World. These bees range from 7 to 15 mm in body length and are distinguished by prominent, coarse scopae on their hind legs adapted for collecting large-grained pollen. Females excavate nests in hard-packed soil using water carried from ponds to moisten the substrate, constructing distinctive turreted or chimney-like nest entrances. The genus exhibits narrow pollen specialization (oligolecty), with species specializing on particular plant families including Malvaceae, Convolvulaceae, Onagraceae, Cactaceae, Pontederiaceae, and Asteraceae.
Ptilothrix chiricahua
Ptilothrix chiricahua is a solitary ground-nesting bee described in 2023 from specimens collected in the Chihuahuan Desert. It is a specialist pollinator of Kallstroemia grandiflora, with flight activity synchronized to this host's late summer bloom. The species exhibits the distinctive water-walking behavior characteristic of its genus, using surface tension to retrieve water for nest excavation. It was previously misidentified as Ptilothrix sumichrasti until taxonomic revision split that species into three distinct taxa.
Pygodasis quadrimaculata
Large Four-spotted Scoliid Wasp
Pygodasis quadrimaculata, commonly known as the Large Four-spotted Scoliid Wasp, is a species of scoliid wasp in the family Scoliidae. Scoliid wasps are solitary, ground-nesting wasps that parasitize scarab beetle larvae. This species is notable for its large size among scoliids and its distinctive four-spotted wing pattern. The species has been documented in 1,712 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is relatively well-observed and likely not rare in its range.
Scolia dubia
Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp, Two-spotted Scoliid Wasp, Blue-winged Digger Wasp
Scolia dubia is a medium-sized scoliid wasp, 20–25 mm in length, with striking iridescent blue-black wings and a black-and-red body marked by two yellow spots on the abdomen. The species ranges across eastern and central North America, from New England to Florida and west to California. It is a specialist parasitoid of scarab beetle grubs, particularly the green June beetle (Cotinis nitida), and has been observed attacking Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) larvae. Adults are nectar feeders, frequently visiting flowers of the mint and aster families.
Scolia dubia dubia
Blue-winged Wasp, Two-spotted Scoliid Wasp, Blue-winged Digger Wasp
Scolia dubia dubia is a subspecies of scoliid wasp commonly known as the Blue-winged Wasp. Adults measure 20–25 mm in length and are distinguished by a bi-colored abdomen: black on the upper half and reddish-brown on the lower half, with two bright yellow spots in the red portion. The wings exhibit brilliant blue iridescent highlights visible in direct sunlight. Females are solitary parasitoids of scarab beetle grubs, including Cotinis nitida (Green June Beetle) and Popillia japonica (Japanese Beetle). Males are non-stinging and can be distinguished by longer antennae, more slender bodies, and a three-pronged pseudostinger.
Scolia dubia haematodes
Blood-tailed Scoliid Wasp, Blue-winged Digger Wasp
Scolia dubia haematodes is a subspecies of digger wasp in the family Scoliidae. Adults are recognized by iridescent blue-black wings, black body, and reddish-brown terminal abdominal segments. Females hunt scarab beetle grubs in soil, paralyze them with a sting, and deposit eggs on the living hosts. The developing wasp larvae consume the grubs, making this taxon a significant biological control agent of turfgrass and garden pests.
Sphecius
Cicada-killer Wasps, Cicada Killers
Sphecius is a genus of large, solitary, ground-dwelling predatory wasps commonly known as cicada-killer wasps. The genus comprises 21 recognized species worldwide, with highest diversity in the region between North Africa and Central Asia. Females hunt adult cicadas, sting them into paralysis, and provision underground nests with these prey items for their larval offspring. The genus is notable for pronounced sexual size dimorphism, with females approximately twice the size of males, and for complex male territorial behavior. Four species occur in the Americas: S. speciosus (eastern), S. grandis (western), S. convallis (Pacific), and S. hogardii (Caribbean).
Sphecius grandis
Western Cicada Killer, Western Cicada-killer Wasp
Sphecius grandis is a large, solitary wasp endemic to western North America, ranging from Central America through Mexico to the Western United States. Females construct burrows in sandy, well-drained soils, often forming nest aggregations with hundreds of individual nests. They provision underground cells with paralyzed cicadas (primarily Tibicen duryi, T. dealbata, and T. parallela) as food for their larvae. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: females are larger (forewing length 2.5–3 cm, mass ~256 mg) and live approximately one year, while smaller males (~95 mg) emerge earlier, live only a few days, and engage in aggressive territorial competition for mating access. Activity is concentrated in July and early August, synchronized with cicada emergence. Despite their large size and formidable appearance, they are not habitually aggressive toward humans.
Sphecius speciosus
Eastern cicada-killer wasp, cicada killer, cicada hawk
Sphecius speciosus is a large, solitary digger wasp and one of the largest wasps in eastern North America. Females hunt cicadas, paralyzing them with venom to provision underground nest cells for their larvae. Despite their formidable size and appearance, they pose minimal threat to humans—females rarely sting unless roughly handled, and males lack stingers entirely. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism, with females substantially larger to accommodate egg-laying and prey transport duties.
Sphecodes davisii
Davis's Cuckoo Sweat Bee
Sphecodes davisii is a cleptoparasitic sweat bee in the family Halictidae. As a member of the genus Sphecodes, it exhibits the cuckoo bee lifestyle: females enter nests of host sweat bees to lay eggs in brood cells, where their larvae consume the host's provisions and developing young. The species is native to North America, with documented records from Vermont and broader North American distribution. Like other Sphecodes, it likely targets ground-nesting Halictidae as hosts.
Sphex ichneumoneus
Great Golden Digger Wasp, Great Golden Sand Digger
Sphex ichneumoneus is a large, conspicuous solitary wasp distributed across the Western Hemisphere from Canada to South America. Females excavate vertical burrows in sandy soils, provisioning individual cells with paralyzed katydids and related Orthoptera as food for their larvae. The species exhibits a distinctive fixed action pattern during prey retrieval, repeatedly inspecting the burrow entrance before dragging prey inside by the antennae—a behavior famously cited in discussions of genetic determinism. Adults forage for nectar at flowers and are frequently observed on blooms of rabbitbrush, prairie clover, and grape.
Sphex pensylvanicus
Great Black Wasp, Great Black Digger Wasp
Sphex pensylvanicus is a large, solitary digger wasp native to North America. Females construct underground burrows and provision them with paralyzed orthopteran prey, primarily katydids, for their larvae. Adults feed on nectar from diverse flowering plants and serve as pollinators. The species exhibits protandry, with males emerging before females in the breeding season. Despite their formidable size and appearance, they are not aggressive toward humans and sting only when handled.
Stictia carolina
Horse Guard Wasp, Horse Guard, Cowfly Tiger, Insecto Policia
Stictia carolina, commonly known as the Horse Guard Wasp, is a large, colorful sand wasp native to eastern and central North America. This solitary wasp is a specialist predator of horse flies (Tabanidae), hunting around livestock and humans to capture its prey. Females excavate burrows in sandy soil where they provision a single cell with 15-35 flies for their larval offspring. Despite its intimidating appearance and persistent hovering behavior around horses, it is not aggressive toward humans and provides valuable biological control of biting flies.
Stictiella
Butterfly-wolf Wasps, sand wasps
Stictiella is a genus of sand wasps in the family Crabronidae, established by J. Parker in 1917. The genus comprises at least 14 described species distributed across North America. These solitary wasps are ground-nesting diggers that provision their nests with prey. The common name "Butterfly-wolf Wasps" reflects their documented habit of preying on lepidopteran larvae, particularly skippers (Hesperiidae) and noctuid moths (Noctuidae).
Stictiellina
Stictiellina is a subtribe of sand wasps in the family Crabronidae, containing at least 60 described species distributed across six genera. These wasps are solitary, ground-nesting predators that provision their burrows with paralyzed flies for their larval offspring. Members are known for their elongated mouthparts adapted for nectar feeding and are often observed visiting flowers. The subtribe was established by Bohart and Horning in 1971.
Stizus
sand wasps
Stizus is a genus of sand wasps in the family Crabronidae, containing over 100 species distributed across Europe, Africa, and North America. These solitary wasps are typically yellow and black, rarely reddish, and reach lengths of about 34 mm. Species nest in sandy soils and provision burrows with prey, primarily grasshoppers, to feed their larvae. Some species form nesting aggregations where males defend territories and engage in contest behavior to gain mating access to females.
Svastra
long-horned bees
Svastra is a genus of long-horned bees in the family Apidae, tribe Eucerini. These solitary, ground-nesting bees are native to North America and are important pollinators of sunflowers and other members of the Asteraceae family. The genus has undergone taxonomic revision, with North American species formerly placed in Svastra now moved to Epimelissodes. Females construct nests in hard-packed soil with cells arranged in spiral patterns, while males are known to form nighttime sleeping aggregations on vegetation.
Svastra minima
Svastra minima is a small species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, tribe Eucerini. The species was described by LaBerge in 1956 and is known from Middle America. Like other members of the genus Svastra, it is a solitary, ground-nesting bee. Specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in published literature.
Svastra obliqua caliginosa
long-horned bee
Svastra obliqua caliginosa is a subspecies of long-horned bee in the family Apidae. It is native to North and Middle America. As a member of the Eucerini tribe, it exhibits traits typical of long-horned bees including elongated antennae in males and ground-nesting behavior. The species Svastra obliqua is known to be associated with sunflowers and members of the Asteraceae family.
Svastra obliqua obliqua
Svastra obliqua obliqua is a subspecies of long-horned bee in the family Apidae. It belongs to a group of solitary, ground-nesting bees native to North America. The species is closely related to other Svastra taxa and shares behavioral traits with the broader long-horned bee group, including male sleeping aggregations on vegetation.
Svastra sabinensis sabinensis
A subspecies of long-horned bee in the tribe Eucerini. Females are solitary ground-nesters that construct individual burrows. Males have been observed forming sleeping aggregations on vegetation at night. The subspecies occurs in parts of Middle and North America.
Syntrichalonia exquisita
Exquisite Longhorn, Exquisite Long-horned Bee
Syntrichalonia exquisita is a species of long-horned bee in the family Apidae, commonly known as the exquisite long-horned bee. It belongs to the tribe Eucerini, a group characterized by elongated antennae, particularly in males. The species occurs across Central and North America. Like other eucerine bees, it is likely solitary and ground-nesting, though specific biological details remain poorly documented.
Tachypompilus ferrugineus
rusty spider wasp, red-tailed spider hunter, red-tailed spider wasp
Tachypompilus ferrugineus is a large spider wasp (family Pompilidae) native to the Americas, ranging from Canada through the United States to Central and South America. Adults measure 15–25 mm in length and are characterized by reddish-brown coloration with four narrow dark abdominal bands and distinctive violet-blue wings. Females hunt and paralyze large wandering spiders, particularly wolf spiders (Lycosidae), to provision underground nests for their larvae. Males exhibit perching behavior on elevated structures and compete for access to females. The species includes nine recognized subspecies with variable geographic distributions.
Tachypompilus unicolor cerinus
Tachypompilus unicolor cerinus is a subspecies of spider wasp in the family Pompilidae, described by Evans in 1966. It belongs to a genus known for hunting large spiders, particularly wolf spiders and fishing spiders, which are paralyzed and provisioned as food for larval offspring. The subspecies is part of the widespread T. unicolor complex, which exhibits considerable geographic variation across North America. Like other members of its genus, it is solitary and ground-nesting.
Tachypompilus unicolor unicolor
A spider wasp subspecies in the family Pompilidae. Members of the genus Tachypompilus are solitary, ground-nesting wasps that provision their nests with paralyzed spiders as food for their larvae. This subspecies was described by Banks in 1919.
Tachysphex
square-headed wasps, digger wasps
Tachysphex is a large genus of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae, comprising over 450 described species worldwide. These diminutive insects, typically 6–10 mm in length, are ground-nesting predators that provision their nests with paralyzed orthopteran prey. The genus exhibits remarkable diversity across multiple continents, with species groups showing distinct ecological preferences and host associations.
Tachysphex terminatus
Tachysphex terminatus is a small solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, part of a species group characterized by specific nesting behaviors in sandy substrates. Females construct individual burrows with multiple cells, provisioned with paralyzed prey for larval development. The species occurs in North America and shares the genus-wide trait of provisioning nests with orthopteran prey, primarily grasshopper nymphs.
Tachytes amazonus
Tachytes amazonus is a solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, tribe Larrini, described by F. Smith in 1856. The species is distributed across the Americas from the Caribbean through Central and South America, with records in Brazil across multiple states including Amazonas, Bahia, Espírito Santo, Goiás, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Roraima, Rio Grande do Sul, and São Paulo. Like other members of the genus Tachytes, it is a ground-nesting wasp that provisions its burrows with paralyzed orthopteran prey.
Tachytes aurulentus
square-headed wasp, green-eyed wasp, sand-loving wasp
Tachytes aurulentus is a species of solitary square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. Like other members of its genus, it is characterized by notably large green eyes, particularly in males. The species is part of a diverse North American assemblage of approximately 35 Tachytes species. These wasps are ground-nesting predators that provision their burrows with paralyzed orthopteran prey for their offspring.
Tachytes distinctus
green-eyed wasp, square-headed wasp
Tachytes distinctus is a solitary square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae, notable for the large green eyes characteristic of many larger Tachytes species. Females excavate underground burrows with branching tunnels and multiple cells, provisioning them with paralyzed orthopteran prey. Males emerge before females and defend territories from perches, using their prominent eyes to detect mates and rivals. The species occurs across North America and the Caribbean.
Tachytes guatemalensis
Guatemalan green-eyed wasp
Tachytes guatemalensis is a solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, tribe Larrini. It belongs to a genus commonly known as 'green-eyed wasps' due to the large, vivid green compound eyes present in many species, especially males. As with other Tachytes, this species is a ground-nesting predator that provisions its burrows with paralyzed orthopteran prey. The species was described from Guatemala and occurs in Central and North America.
Tachytes intermedius
square-headed wasp
Tachytes intermedius is a species of square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae, distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Tachytes, it shares the characteristic large green eyes found in many larger species of this group. The species was described by Viereck in 1906. Like other Tachytes, it is a solitary wasp that nests in soil and provisions its burrows with paralyzed orthopteran prey.
Tachytes pennsylvanicus
square-headed wasp
Tachytes pennsylvanicus is a solitary square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. It belongs to a genus commonly known as "green-eyed wasps" due to the distinctive large green eyes of males and larger species. Like other Tachytes, it is a ground-nesting predator that provisions its burrows with paralyzed orthopteran prey. The species was described by Banks in 1921 and occurs in North America.
Tachytes sayi
Tachytes sayi is a solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, tribe Larrini. It is one of approximately 35 North American species in the genus Tachytes. These wasps are characterized by large, often green eyes in males, and are commonly referred to as 'green-eyed wasps' or 'sand-loving wasps.' Females excavate burrows in soil to provision with paralyzed orthopteran prey for their larvae.
Tachytes validus
square-headed wasp
Tachytes validus is a solitary square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae, described by Cresson in 1873. As a member of the genus Tachytes, it shares the tribe Larrini's characteristic reduced ocelli appearing as 'scars' with golf club-shaped tails. The species is native to North America, with confirmed records from Canada including Manitoba. Like other Tachytes, it likely exhibits the genus's distinctive green eyes in larger individuals and ground-nesting behavior, though specific biological details for this species remain limited in published literature.
Tanyoprymnus
Tanyoprymnus is a genus of digger wasps in the family Crabronidae, subfamily Bembicinae. The genus was established by Cameron in 1905. The best-known species is Tanyoprymnus moneduloides (Packard), which has been studied for its nesting biology. Members of this genus are solitary wasps that construct nests in soil.
Trachusa perdita
California leafcutting bee, California Resin-Leafcutter
Trachusa perdita is a solitary leafcutting bee native to California, belonging to the family Megachilidae. Females construct underground nests in hillsides, lining brood cells with leaves collected from Buckthorn shrubs. The species is notable for its distinctive nesting behavior and specific host-plant relationship for nest construction materials.
Trachypus
bee-hunting wasp
Trachypus is a Neotropical genus of digger wasps in the family Crabronidae, comprising 31 described species. Species are ground-nesting and may be solitary or communal. The genus is notable for its specialized predation on bees, with some species exhibiting narrow prey specialization on stingless bees (Meliponini). Trachypus species harbor symbiotic streptomycete bacteria in antennal glands, a trait shared with their close relative Philanthus.
Triepeolus concavus
Concave Longhorn-Cuckoo
Triepeolus concavus is a cleptoparasitic bee in the family Apidae. Females lay eggs in the ground nests of host bees, particularly sunflower bees (Svastra obliqua expurgata). The species lacks pollen-collecting structures (scopa) and relies on stealing food stores provisioned by host bees. It is found in the United States and Mexico.
Triepeolus grandis
Great Feather-tongue-Cuckoo
Triepeolus grandis is a cleptoparasitic bee in the family Apidae, subfamily Nomadinae. It is a cuckoo bee that parasitizes the ground-nesting bee Caupolicana yarrowi (Colletidae: Diphaglossinae). Females enter host nests during or after host provisioning, destroy host eggs or larvae, and lay their own eggs on the host's pollen provisions. The species occurs in North America and Central America.
Triepeolus remigatus
Squash Longhorn-Cuckoo, cuckoo bee
Triepeolus remigatus is a cleptoparasitic bee (cuckoo bee) in the family Apidae. It parasitizes the nests of squash bees, particularly Xenoglossa pruinosa. Unlike most bees, it does not collect pollen or construct its own nests. The species is found in the United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Vespula alascensis
Alaska yellowjacket, American yellowjacket
Vespula alascensis is a social wasp native to North America, recognized as a distinct species in 2010 after being treated as a taxonomic synonym of Vespula vulgaris for over a century. It belongs to the 'vulgaris group' of yellowjackets, characterized by scavenging behavior and ground-nesting habits. The species is known to occur across northern and western regions of the continent, with confirmed records from Vermont to Hawaii.
Vespula maculifrons
Eastern yellowjacket, Eastern yellow jacket
Vespula maculifrons is a social wasp native to eastern North America, commonly known as the Eastern yellowjacket. It is among the most aggressive stinging insects in its range, known for vigorously defending nests and delivering painful stings with minimal provocation. Colonies are typically founded by a single queen in spring and can grow to contain thousands of workers by late summer. The species is polyandrous, with females mating with multiple males, and exhibits cooperative colony dynamics without significant reproductive conflict among patrilines.
Xenoglossa
Squash Bees and Allies, Squash Bees
Xenoglossa is a genus of large bees in the family Apidae, commonly known as squash bees. Species in this genus are oligolectic pollen specialists, with most species foraging exclusively on Cucurbita crops (Cucurbitaceae). Some species, such as X. (Cemolobus) ipomoeae, specialize on Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) instead. These solitary, ground-nesting bees are native to North America and are important agricultural pollinators. Adults are active for a brief period in summer, coinciding with host plant bloom.
Xenoglossa angustior
Red-tailed Squash Bee
Xenoglossa angustior, the Red-tailed Squash Bee, is a specialist pollinator of cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae) in the tribe Eucerini. It is native to North and Middle America and shares the common name "squash bee" with the related genus Peponapis. Both genera are oligoleges that pollinate exclusively squash, pumpkins, gourds, cucumbers, and zucchini.
Xenoglossa kansensis
Kansas squash bee
Xenoglossa kansensis, commonly known as the Kansas squash bee, is a solitary long-horned bee in the family Apidae. It belongs to a genus of specialist pollinators that are oligoleges on cucurbits (the squash family, Cucurbitaceae). The species is native to North America and is one of two related genera (Xenoglossa and Peponapis) commonly referred to as squash bees. Like other squash bees, it is an early-morning pollinator of cucurbit crops.
Xenoglossodes
Xenoglossodes is a subgenus of long-horned bees in the genus Xenoglossa (family Apidae). Established by Ashmead in 1899, it is currently recognized as a subgenus rather than a full genus. The taxonomic status has been historically unstable, with Xenoglossodes excurrens (Cockerell, 1903) now treated as a synonym of Melissodes subagilis. Members are specialist bees associated with cucurbit flowers.
Zikanapis elegans
Zikanapis elegans is a species of plasterer bee in the family Colletidae, originally described as Caupolicana elegans by Timberlake in 1965. It belongs to a genus of solitary bees found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Like other colletid bees, it likely nests in the ground and lines its brood cells with a cellophane-like secretion. The species is poorly known, with limited observational records.