Fringed Leafcutter Bee vs Common Potter Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Fringed Leafcutter Bee | Common Potter Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megachile fidelis | Eumenes fraternus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Megachilidae | Vespidae |
| Size | 11-14 mm | 13-17 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Underground |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Fringed Leafcutter Bee
A western North American leafcutter bee recognized by the dense fringe of golden hairs on its hind legs used for pollen transport. It nests in the ground, unusual for its genus.
Did You Know?
Unlike most leafcutter bees that nest in cavities, it excavates burrows directly into sandy soil.
Common Potter Wasp
A North American potter wasp that builds small globular mud cells on plant stems and twigs. The female suspends her egg on a silk thread inside the pot before sealing it.
Did You Know?
The egg is hung on a thread from the ceiling of the pot so the larva can begin eating the paralyzed caterpillars below without being crushed.