American Dustywing vs Blue Mason Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute American Dustywing Blue Mason Bee
Scientific Name Conwentzia californica Osmia caerulescens
Order Neuroptera Hymenoptera
Family Coniopterygidae Megachilidae
Size 3-5 mm wingspan 7-10 mm
Habitat Gardens Gardens
Diet Predators Nectar Feeders
Regions Western North America Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

American Dustywing

A tiny western North American dustywing found on fruit trees and ornamental plants. Valued as a natural mite predator in orchards.

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Did You Know?

Citrus growers consider it one of the most important natural enemies of citrus red mite.

Blue Mason Bee

A small, metallic blue-black solitary bee that nests in pre-existing cavities in wood and walls. It is common in gardens and readily uses artificial bee hotels.

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Did You Know?

Females seal each egg cell with chewed leaf material mixed with mud.