Orchard Bee - male

Description:

A number of species of Orchard Mason Bees (Osmia) are native to North America. They occur in different climates & environments but are particularly well adapted in the northern ranges of blooming fruit trees. Males are characterized by their long antennae and a tuft of light colored hair in the front of the head. Osmia bees are effective pollinators because of their pubescence or hairiness. This enables them to carry pollen grains from flower to flower, causing pollination to take place. Orchard Mason bees occur in woodlands and forest edges. They appear in early spring when the first bushes and trees bloom. Cherry, Pear and Apple are particularly attractive but other nectar and pollen sources include Quince, Laburnum spp. and blueberry. Mated females will use existing holes in wood for a nest. Holes with 7 - 8 mm diameter holes are favored. A mud plug is placed at the end of the tubular nest and then she will place up to 20 loads of nectar and pollen at the end of the tube. When sufficient food has been deposited an egg is laid and the cell is sealed with a thin mud plug. The whole process is repeated for each egg and cell she creates until the tube is filled close to its entrance.

Habitat:

Native to North America. Woodlands, forest edges, orchards, spring flowering fruit trees.