• Family: Andrenidae
• Approximate # species in region: 2
• Common name: miner bee

A group of small, compact ground-nesting bees, often with yellow face markings. In our region, two species occur, with Calliopsis andreniformis being the more widespread and abundant species by far. Look for this species in early summer in the most trampled earth you can find. They especially like dirt paths, abandoned baseball diamonds, and wetland dikes.

Though small, Calliopsis are rather distinctive. Females have blue-gray eyes, pale face markings, and nonmetallic integument. Some fairy bees (Perdita) are similar, but with pale markings on the abdomen that Calliopsis in our area never have. Male Calliopsis are quite unique and striking, with yellow legs and faces and yellowish-green eyes.

Regional Species List: