Sharp-tailed Bee vs Tree Bumblebee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sharp-tailed Bee | Tree Bumblebee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coelioxys conoidea | Bombus hypnorum |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Megachilidae | Apidae |
| Size | 12-15 mm | 11-18mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Woodlands |
| Diet | Parasites | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, North Africa | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Sharp-tailed Bee
A cleptoparasitic bee with a sharply pointed abdomen used to pierce the cell walls of leafcutter bee nests. Females lay their eggs directly into provisioned host cells.
Did You Know?
The female's dagger-like abdomen tip is so sharp it can slice through multiple layers of leaf cell walls to deposit an egg.
Tree Bumblebee
A distinctive bumblebee with a brown thorax, black abdomen and white tail. Often nests in bird boxes.
Did You Know?
A recent and rapid colonizer of Britain since 2001, frequently nesting in bird boxes and roof spaces.