Common Yellow-face Bee - Hylaeus communis

Size 6 to 8 mm. Males can be distinguished by the facial markings with the yellow on the face obviously divided by black bands and curling around the antennal sockets. Females have far more restricted yellow on the face, just a small patch lying against the edge of the eye. The antennae are entirely dark below and the hind tibia has a prominent yellow ring on the basal quarter to a half. The corners of the prothorax are prominent and strongly angled.

• lacks a fringe of white hairs at base of tergite 1
• has a band of sparce punctures on apical third of tergite 1 (needs good magnification)

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’).

Feeds on a range of flowers and often found in gardens.

Peak time around July.

Probably the commonest of this group in the UK.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.