Sandpit Mining Bee vs Dotted Bee Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sandpit Mining Bee | Dotted Bee Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Andrena barbilabris | Bombylius discolor |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Andrenidae | Bombyliidae |
| Size | 10-13 mm | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Northern Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Sandpit Mining Bee
A pale, sandy-colored mining bee that specializes in nesting in loose sandy soils. It is commonly found in sand pits, coastal dunes, and sandy heaths.
Did You Know?
Its pale sandy coloring provides excellent camouflage against the light soils where it nests, making it nearly invisible when resting.
Dotted Bee Fly
A spring-flying bee fly distinguished from its commoner relative by spotted wings and a darker fur coat. Its larvae parasitize mining bee larvae of the genus Andrena.
Did You Know?
It appears only in spring for a few weeks, closely tracking the flight season of its specific Andrena bee hosts.