Hylaeus sp.

This is a Hylaeus female. Hylaeus bees are also known as “Masked Bees,” for the white or yellow markings on their faces. Adult bees carry pollen inside their crop (a part of their digestive tract). They regurgitate this pollen for use in larval cells. They often nest in the premade cavities of dead twigs and plant stems. Most species are 4-7 mm long. There are approximately 14 species in the continental North America with dozens more endemic to Hawaii. 

Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Colletidae
Species: Hylaeus sp.

Photograph: © 2018 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 03 July 2018
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45^o20'53" N 111^o10'31" W)

Male Hylaeus species.