Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Flies, moths, wasps,and other insects with obvious wings - 1/4 to 3/4 inch long > Andrenid bees

Andrenid bees

Andrena spp.

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Description: 1/2 inch long. Typically gray to brown with some hair on thorax and abdomen.

Where/When: Found nesting in gardens or lawns, particularly in sunny, dry areas with little vegetation. Andrenid bees are solitary, although many can nest in a small area. Active April and May.

Significance: They are docile and nonaggressive and stings are very rare. They are important pollinators and should be preserved and left alone.

More information on andrenid bees