Error message
Unable to fetch location details at this time.
Metallic Green Bee - Nesting
Augochlora pura
42.9615, -85.6557
Field Notes
Description:
This 7 ft. dead pine tree trunk with numerous woodpecker holes has become a spring nesting complex for these Metallic Green bees. The females create cells for each egg inside these holes and provision each cell with pollen. A. pura is one of the few halictid bees known to nest in decomposing wood.
Habitat:
Range: Quebec and Maine to Minnesota, south to Texas and Florida. Nests in wood. Feeds on pollen; prairies, meadows, roadsides, gardens.
Notes:
During the afternoon the females can be seen sitting inside the entrance with their heads facing out. Research has shown that the females forage during the morning hours and construct the nesting cells only at night. I have observed at least 12 occupied holes, and more bees looking for an appropriate nesting spot.
Species ID Suggestions
Spotted for Missions
Photographed
PublishedMarch 20, 2012
Comments (16)