Macropis Cuckoo Bee vs European Amazon Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Macropis Cuckoo Bee | European Amazon Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Epeoloides coecutiens | Polyergus rufescens |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Melittidae | Formicidae |
| Size | 7-10 mm | 6-7 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Meadows |
| Diet | Parasites | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Eastern North America | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Not Evaluated |
Macropis Cuckoo Bee
A rare cleptoparasitic bee that targets nests of Macropis oil-collecting bees. It was once thought extinct in North America before being rediscovered in Nova Scotia in 2002.
Did You Know?
Its dramatic rediscovery in North America after decades of presumed extinction made international conservation news.
European Amazon Ant
An obligate slave-making ant that raids colonies of Formica ants to steal pupae. The kidnapped workers then perform all domestic duties for the Polyergus colony.
Did You Know?
Their sickle-shaped mandibles are so specialized for fighting that they cannot feed themselves or care for their own brood.