• Family: Andrenidae
• Tribe: Perditini
• Approximate # species in region: 10
• Common name: fairy bees

Perdita are tiny sand sprites. Bees in this genus are affectionately known as “fairy bees” and they are most diverse in the desert southwest, with only a handful of species found in the northeast. Because of their tiny size, tight association with sand, and often strict host plant requirements, Perdita are rarely stumbled upon. In the right place at the right time, however, they can be locally abundant. Some females of this genus carry pollen in nectar-moistened pellets in their scopae.

Species covered:

Species requiring accounts: