🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

Sweat Bee

Halictus ligatus

About Sweat Bee

A small, dark metallic bee that is attracted to human perspiration for its salt content. It exhibits variable social behavior ranging from solitary to primitively eusocial nesting.

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Did You Know?

Sweat bees are among the most important wild pollinators of crops, and some species can switch between solitary and social living depending on environmental conditions.

How to Identify Sweat Bee

Sweat Bee (Halictus ligatus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Halictidae. Adults typically measure 7-11 mm.

Sweat Bee Habitat

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

Sweat Bee Diet and Feeding

Sweat Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.

Where Is Sweat Bee Found?

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

Distribution Map

Where Sweat Bee can be found

Is Sweat Bee Dangerous?

Sweat 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.

Sweat Bee Role in Nature

Sweat 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

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweat Bee

What does Sweat Bee look like?

The Sweat Bee typically measures 7-11 mm.

Where is Sweat Bee found?

The Sweat Bee is found in North America and typically inhabits farmland environments.

What does Sweat Bee eat?

The Sweat Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.

Is Sweat Bee dangerous to humans?

The Sweat 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 Sweat Bee?

Sweat bees are among the most important wild pollinators of crops, and some species can switch between solitary and social living depending on environmental conditions.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Sweat Bee (Halictus ligatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/sweat-bee

MLA:
"Sweat Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/sweat-bee.