About Hairy-legged Mining Bee
A rare and declining bee that is a strict specialist on red bartsia flowers. It has distinctive hairy hind legs used for carrying the wet, sticky pollen of its host plant.
Did You Know?
Its complete dependence on a single semi-parasitic plant species makes it one of the most ecologically specialized bees in Europe.
How to Identify Hairy-legged Mining Bee
Hairy-legged Mining Bee (Melitta tricincta) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Melittidae. Adults typically measure 9-11 mm.
Hairy-legged Mining Bee Habitat
Hairy-legged Mining Bee is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Hairy-legged Mining Bee Diet and Feeding
Hairy-legged 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 Hairy-legged Mining Bee Found?
Hairy-legged Mining Bee can be found in Europe, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Hairy-legged Mining Bee can be found
Is Hairy-legged Mining Bee Dangerous?
Hairy-legged 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.
Hairy-legged Mining Bee Role in Nature
Hairy-legged 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 Hairy-legged Mining Bee
What does Hairy-legged Mining Bee look like?
The Hairy-legged Mining Bee typically measures 9-11 mm.
Where is Hairy-legged Mining Bee found?
The Hairy-legged Mining Bee is found in Europe and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Hairy-legged Mining Bee eat?
The Hairy-legged Mining Bee feeds on pollen collected from flowers.
Is Hairy-legged Mining Bee dangerous to humans?
The Hairy-legged Mining Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Hairy-legged Mining Bee endangered?
The Hairy-legged Mining Bee is currently classified as Near Threatened by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Hairy-legged Mining Bee?
Its complete dependence on a single semi-parasitic plant species makes it one of the most ecologically specialized bees in Europe.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Hairy-legged Mining Bee (Melitta tricincta). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hairy-legged-mining-bee
MLA:
"Hairy-legged Mining Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hairy-legged-mining-bee.