Unequal Cellophane Bee vs Saxon Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Unequal Cellophane Bee Saxon Wasp
Scientific Name Colletes inaequalis Dolichovespula saxonica
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Colletidae Vespidae
Size 10-13 mm 12-18 mm
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Predators
Regions North America Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Unequal Cellophane Bee

An early spring bee that forms large nesting aggregations in sandy soil. It lines its cells with a waterproof secretion resembling cellophane.

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Did You Know?

Nesting aggregations can alarm homeowners as thousands of bees emerge from lawns, but they are docile and rarely sting.

Saxon Wasp

A social wasp that builds distinctive grey football-shaped nests in trees and bushes. It is generally docile and its colonies die off naturally by late summer.

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Did You Know?

It was first confirmed breeding in Britain only in 1987, having expanded its range from mainland Europe.