Cellophane Bee
Early-season solitary bees named for the cellophane-like waterproof lining they apply to their underground nest cells. Among the first native bees to emerge in spring.
Why you want them
Cellophane bees (family Colletidae) are important early pollinators that emerge when few other native bees are active, often as early as late winter. This makes them valuable for pollinating early fruit tree blossom and spring bulbs. They are fast fliers and visit a wide range of flowers. Their early emergence and tolerance of cool weather fills a pollination gap that honeybees and most other species cannot cover.
How to attract them
- Willow catkins
- Cherry blossom
- Dandelion
- Crocus
- Fruit tree blossom
- Hazel
Preferred habitat
Ground-nesting in light, well-drained soil. They prefer south-facing slopes and sandy soils, where they create small burrow entrances.
What harms them
Loss of early-flowering plants, paving and mulching of bare soil, and pesticide use in early spring.
Garden, by Willowbottom works with nature, not against it. Support your garden allies and they will do most of the hard work for you.