About Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee
A large, furry leafcutter bee common across Europe that nests in a variety of above-ground cavities. It is named after the 17th-century English naturalist Francis Willughby.
Did You Know?
Females have been recorded cutting leaf pieces from over 20 different plant species to construct a single nest.
How to Identify Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee (Megachile willughbiella) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Megachilidae. Adults typically measure 12-16 mm.
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee Habitat
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, Central Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee Diet and Feeding
Willoughby's Leafcutter 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 Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee Found?
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee can be found in Europe, Central Asia, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee can be found
Is Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee Dangerous?
Willoughby's Leafcutter 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.
Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee Role in Nature
Willoughby's Leafcutter 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 Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee
What does Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee look like?
The Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee typically measures 12-16 mm.
Where is Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee found?
The Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee is found in Europe, Central Asia and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee eat?
The Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee dangerous to humans?
The Willoughby's Leafcutter 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 Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee?
Females have been recorded cutting leaf pieces from over 20 different plant species to construct a single nest.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee (Megachile willughbiella). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willoughbys-leafcutter-bee
MLA:
"Willoughby's Leafcutter Bee." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/willoughbys-leafcutter-bee.