• Family: Colletidae
• Approximate # species in region: 21
• Common name: masked bees

Hylaeus are tiny colletid bees that are more wasp-like than bee-like. Their common name (“masked bees”) reflects the strong yellow and white markings often present on their faces – the shape and arrangement of these markings is often helpful for identification. All species nest above ground in cavities and, like all colletids, they line their nests with a thin waterproof lining. Females always carry pollen internally and consequently do not have any scopal hairs.

Hylaeus are not readily mistaken for other bee genera, but the nearly 20 species of Hylaeus in eastern North America can be quite difficult to tell apart from one another. Rather inconveniently, some of the most distinctive species are exceedingly rare or highly specific in their habitat preferences. Even so, it’s often possible to narrow identifications down to small groups or pairs of closely related species, even in the field.

Regional Species List: