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Bee Assassin (mating)

Apiomerus californicus

Published on Project Noah
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33.1856, -117.057

Field Notes

Description:

These Bee Assassins were mating. The female was eating a bee quite contently. They are black with red eyes, edging of the wings and markings on the legs.

Habitat:

Buckwheat in chaparral

Notes:

First for Project Noah!

Reference Links:

Species Apiomerus californicus - BugGuide.Net

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (3)
Caleb Steindel
wow, that is terrific. Thanks for sharing this amazing spotting! love all your photos keep em coming!
CindyBinghamKeiser
Yes. Many type of insects do this. Either the male catches prey and presents it to the female as a mating gift or the male takes the opportunity to mate when the female is busy eating.
Caleb Steindel
wait a sec. they're mating & eating at the same time????????????

Spotted for Missions

Mission
Southern California Wildlife
Mission
Hunters & Animal Food Habits
Mission
Wild Love
Mission
National Geographic's Great Nature Project
Mission
The Bug Chicks Sofa Safari

Tags

Photographed
PublishedMay 6, 2014

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