
Community identification
Sweat Bee
Halictidae (family)
- Order & Family
- Order: Hymenoptera; Family: Halictidae
- Size
- 3 mm to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found globally in many habitats, including gardens, woodlands, and urban areas, typically nesting in the ground or rotting wood.
Diet & Feeding
Adults primarily feed on nectar and pollen; they are frequently attracted to human sweat for its moisture and salt content.
Behavior Patterns
Most are solitary or semi-social ground-nesters. They are active during the day and are known for hovering near and landing on people to drink sweat.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits: Crucial pollinators for many wild plants and agricultural crops. Risks: They can sting if swatted or pressed against the skin, but the sting is generally minor and only mildly painful compared to larger bees.