About Clarke's Mining Bee
An early spring bee with females covered in bright orange-red fur. It is closely associated with willow catkins for pollen.
Did You Know?
It is one of the first solitary bees to emerge each spring, sometimes appearing as early as February.
How to Identify Clarke's Mining Bee
Clarke's Mining Bee (Andrena clarkella) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Andrenidae. Adults typically measure 10-14 mm.
Clarke's Mining Bee Habitat
Clarke's Mining Bee is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Clarke's Mining Bee Diet and Feeding
Clarke's Mining Bee feeds on pollen collected from flowers. As a pollen feeder, it plays a role in pollination, helping to fertilise plants as it moves from flower to flower.
Where Is Clarke's Mining Bee Found?
Clarke's Mining Bee can be found in Europe, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Clarke's Mining Bee can be found
Is Clarke's Mining Bee Dangerous?
Clarke's Mining 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.
Clarke's Mining Bee Role in Nature
Clarke's Mining Bee plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Clarke's Mining Bee
What does Clarke's Mining Bee look like?
The Clarke's Mining Bee typically measures 10-14 mm.
Where is Clarke's Mining Bee found?
The Clarke's Mining Bee is found in Europe and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.
What does Clarke's Mining Bee eat?
The Clarke's Mining Bee feeds on pollen collected from flowers.
Is Clarke's Mining Bee dangerous to humans?
The Clarke's Mining 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 Clarke's Mining Bee?
It is one of the first solitary bees to emerge each spring, sometimes appearing as early as February.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Clarke's Mining Bee (Andrena clarkella). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clarkes-mining-bee
MLA:
"Clarke's Mining Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clarkes-mining-bee.