Northern Pitch Twig Moth Sawfly vs Hairy-footed Flower Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Northern Pitch Twig Moth Sawfly | Hairy-footed Flower Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xyela alpigena | Anthophora plumipes |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Xyelidae | Apidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 14-16 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Underground |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, particularly Alpine regions | Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Northern Pitch Twig Moth Sawfly
A minute sawfly that is part of the oldest surviving lineage of Hymenoptera. Adults have the distinctive elongated third antennal segment characteristic of xyelids.
Did You Know?
This high-altitude species represents a living lineage that has survived essentially unchanged for over 200 million years.
Hairy-footed Flower Bee
A fast-flying, plump solitary bee with males covered in tawny hair and females jet black. It is one of the earliest spring bees, often visiting pulmonaria and comfrey.
Did You Know?
Males hover in front of flowers like tiny hummingbirds, darting between blooms at high speed.