Tawny Mining Bee

Natural Habitat

Gardens, parks, and light woodland; they prefer areas with sparse vegetation for nesting in the ground.

Diet & Feeding

Nectar and pollen from various spring-flowering plants including fruit trees, dandelions, and willows.

Behavior Patterns

A solitary spring-flying bee that nests in underground burrows, often creating small volcanoes of soil on lawns. They are active from March to June.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial pollinator for gardens and crops. They are very docile and rarely sting unless handled roughly; the sting is minor compared to a honeybee.

Identified on: 5/19/2026