European Orchard Bee (Mason Bee)

Natural Habitat

Orchards, gardens, and meadows with nesting sites in hollow reeds or wood

Diet & Feeding

Floral nectar and pollen, primarily from fruit trees and spring flowers

Behavior Patterns

Solitary bee that nests in pre-existing cavities; females are active in early spring and are efficient pollinators

Risks & Benefits

Extremely beneficial as a high-yield pollinator for early crops; very low risk to humans as they are non-aggressive and lack a defensive hive instinct to defend a defendable hive

Identified on: 5/14/2026