🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

Macropis Cuckoo Bee

Epeoloides coecutiens

Endangered

About Macropis Cuckoo Bee

A rare cleptoparasitic bee that targets nests of Macropis oil-collecting bees. It was once thought extinct in North America before being rediscovered in Nova Scotia in 2002.

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Did You Know?

Its dramatic rediscovery in North America after decades of presumed extinction made international conservation news.

How to Identify Macropis Cuckoo Bee

Macropis Cuckoo Bee (Epeoloides coecutiens) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Melittidae. Adults typically measure 7-10 mm.

Macropis Cuckoo Bee Habitat

Macropis Cuckoo Bee is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Eastern North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Macropis Cuckoo Bee Diet and Feeding

Macropis Cuckoo 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 Macropis Cuckoo Bee Found?

Macropis Cuckoo Bee can be found in Europe, Eastern North America, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Macropis Cuckoo Bee can be found

Is Macropis Cuckoo Bee Dangerous?

Macropis Cuckoo 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.

Macropis Cuckoo Bee Role in Nature

Macropis Cuckoo Bee plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Macropis Cuckoo 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

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Macropis Cuckoo Bee

What does Macropis Cuckoo Bee look like?

The Macropis Cuckoo Bee typically measures 7-10 mm.

Where is Macropis Cuckoo Bee found?

The Macropis Cuckoo Bee is found in Europe, Eastern North America and typically inhabits farmland environments.

What does Macropis Cuckoo Bee eat?

The Macropis Cuckoo Bee is a parasite that feeds on a host organism.

Is Macropis Cuckoo Bee dangerous to humans?

The Macropis Cuckoo Bee belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.

Is Macropis Cuckoo Bee endangered?

The Macropis Cuckoo Bee is currently classified as Endangered by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.

What is an interesting fact about Macropis Cuckoo Bee?

Its dramatic rediscovery in North America after decades of presumed extinction made international conservation news.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Macropis Cuckoo Bee (Epeoloides coecutiens). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/macropis-cuckoo-bee

MLA:
"Macropis Cuckoo Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/macropis-cuckoo-bee.