Black-horned Nomad Bee - Nomada rufipes

This is a medium-sized bee which is yellow and black, although some females may be red, yellow and black. For further details see the ‘Further info:’ links below.

Most solitary bees and wasps are difficult to identify, and can rarely be identified from photos taken in the field.  All red-rated records should include a photo, or set of photos, showing the key characters, which may require the specimen. Please include a face shot, side, top and wings.  Note whether male or female, explain how the specimen met the key characters and the key used.  We will accept records identified by a recognised local or national expert, or that have been identified via the BWARS’ Facebook noting the name of the person/organisation identifying the record (e.g. ‘Stuart Roberts, BWARS Facebook’).

Found in a variety of habitats, but perhaps favouring heathland areas.

Univoltine: July to September.

The female bee lays her eggs in provisioned cells inside the underground nests of its hosts, which are bees of the Andrena denticulata group, and probably A. nitidiuscula.

Widespread in England and Wales.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/63075200@N07/albums/72157633464416873/

https://bwars.com/bee/apidae/nomada-rufipes