Habropoda

Types of Bees Types of Bees Wasps

Most of the Habropoda species, a genus of bees in the family Apidae, are natives of Western North America.

The general exception to the rule is the Southeastern Blueberry Bee (Habropoda laboriosa), a prolific pollinator, and welcome visitor to all blueberry patches.

Most of the species are smaller than fellow Apidae members, the bumblebees, and they tend to be early spring fliers.

The picture highlights the distinct feathery hair on the legs, and while some species have gray hair on the body, others have brown or yellow hair, which gives them a strong semblance to bumblebees.

© 2010 Patricia A. Michaels