Sweat Bees: Halictus

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Most people know of sweat bees (Halictidae) as the small, dark, flying insects that bother them during and after bouts of physical activity.

Sweat Bees earned their nickname for their tendency to be attracted to the salt in human sweat. If swatted, they do sting, however, most experts agree the sting is very mild except for sensitive individuals.

A few genera of sweat bees have a metallic color. Another group, the Halictus genus, are larger than the average sweat bee with a distinct striped abdomen.

Of course, many bee species have a striped abdomen. However, a tentative halictus identification for the species in the top picture is given based on the wings, abdomen and legs.

Most Halictidae species are categorized as solitary bees, although there are some eusocial species.

© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels