Megachile ericetorum♀︎

Lathyrus latifolius (Broad-leaved sweet pea)

Last update: 15 February 2019


Uncommon

LOCATION: Krimpen aan den IJssel, garden

OBSERVATION:


Megachile ericetorum is a yearly returning guest in the garden. In large numbers they visit especially the Sweet pea plants but also Brid’s-foot trefoil.

They are rather large bees and especially the females are very nicely designed with an orange-golden glow.

The female below shows the typical posture that can be found in this species and its relatives, where she bends her body downwards so she can reach deep into the flower with her head.

Megachile ericetorum ♀︎ on Broad-leaved sweet pea (Lathyrus latifolius)
Megachile ericetorum ♀︎ on Broad-leaved sweet pea (Lathyrus latifolius)

This male was hanging on a Brid’s-foot trefoil flower resting and used only it’s mandibles and front legs.

Megachile ericetorum ♂︎ on Bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus)
Megachile ericetorum ♂︎ on Bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus)

This species visits the bee hotels as well, see the related posts section.


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