Blue Mud Dauber vs Painted Mining Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blue Mud Dauber | Painted Mining Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chalybion californicum | Andrena fucata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Sphecidae | Andrenidae |
| Size | 10-23 mm | 10-13 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Blue Mud Dauber
A metallic blue wasp that preys on black widow spiders. It reuses mud nests built by other dauber species rather than constructing its own.
Did You Know?
It specifically targets black widow spiders to provision its nest.
Painted Mining Bee
A handsome spring bee with a red-brown thorax and banded abdomen. It is common in woodland clearings and gardens across Europe.
Did You Know?
It is a favourite host of the cuckoo bee Nomada flava, which lays eggs in its nest burrows.