About Blood Bee
A cleptoparasitic bee with a bright red abdomen and black head that attacks the nests of furrow bees. Females enter host nests to lay eggs that hatch and consume the host provisions.
Did You Know?
Its blood-red abdomen is the source of its common name and makes it look more like a ruby-colored ant than a bee.
How to Identify Blood Bee
Blood Bee (Sphecodes monilicornis) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Halictidae. Adults typically measure 7-9 mm.
Blood Bee Habitat
Blood Bee is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Blood Bee Diet and Feeding
Blood Bee is a parasitic species that feeds on or within a host organism. Parasitic insects have evolved specialised adaptations to exploit their hosts while avoiding detection.
Where Is Blood Bee Found?
Blood Bee can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Blood Bee can be found
Is Blood Bee Dangerous?
Blood Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Blood Bee Role in Nature
Blood Bee plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Blood Bee are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Bee
What does Blood Bee look like?
The Blood Bee typically measures 7-9 mm.
Where is Blood Bee found?
The Blood Bee is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Blood Bee eat?
The Blood Bee is a parasite that feeds on a host organism.
Is Blood Bee dangerous to humans?
The Blood Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about Blood Bee?
Its blood-red abdomen is the source of its common name and makes it look more like a ruby-colored ant than a bee.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Blood Bee (Sphecodes monilicornis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/blood-bee
MLA:
"Blood Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/blood-bee.