Horned Mason Bee

About Horned Mason Bee

A robust spring-flying bee with distinctive horn-like projections on the female's face. It is widely used as a managed pollinator in European fruit orchards.

How to Identify Horned Mason Bee

Horned Mason Bee (Osmia cornuta) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Megachilidae. Adults typically measure 12-15 mm.

Horned Mason Bee Habitat

Horned Mason Bee is found in orchards habitats, particularly across Europe, North Africa, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Horned Mason Bee Diet and Feeding

Horned Mason Bee feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.

Where Is Horned Mason Bee Found?

Horned Mason Bee can be found in Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, where it inhabits orchards environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Is Horned Mason Bee Dangerous?

Horned Mason 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.

Horned Mason Bee Role in Nature

Horned Mason Bee is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.

Seasonal Activity