




Hylaeus
Masked bees are small, fuzzy insects that help flowers grow by spreading pollen. They are often seen buzzing around gardens and parks, making them important for nature!
Habitat: Urban areas
The Masked Bees has a small, slender body that is mostly black and nearly hairless, making it look more like a tiny wasp than a typical fuzzy bee. Its most distinctive feature is the striking yellow or white 'mask-like' markings on its face.





Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Many masked bees don't sting, so you can watch them without worry!
Masked bees are sometimes called "yellow-faced bees" because of their cool facial patterns!
They swallow pollen like a drink, instead of carrying it on their legs!
Unlike honeybees, masked bees live all by themselves, without a queen or hive!
Masked Bees can swallow pollen into their crop because they lack specialized hairs, which helps them transport it efficiently to their nests.
Masked Bees can create nests in hollow stems or small cavities because they are solitary, which helps them protect their young.
Masked Bees has unique pale facial patterns that helps them be distinguished by scientists and sometimes even other bees.
Masked Bees can visit a wide variety of flowers because of their small size, which helps them find food in diverse habitats.
These tiny bees drink flower nectar and eat pollen to get their energy and nutrients.
Solidago canadensis
collects nectar and pollen from blooms.

Epilobium angustifolium
visits flowers for nectar and pollen.
Misumena vatia
hides in flowers to ambush them.
Furry describes animals possessing a dense covering of soft hair or fur.
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Describes a species whose presence and role have a disproportionately large effect on its environment.
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
No aliases listed yet.
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Masked bees are friendly and won't sting unless they feel scared. Just watch them from a distance!
6-16 mm
3-8 mm
20-45 days
These tiny bees drink flower nectar and eat pollen to get their energy and nutrients.
Urban areas
Foraging
6
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