description Andrena vaga Overview
Andrena vaga, commonly known as the grey-backed mining bee, is a solitary bee species found across Europe. It is oligolectic, meaning females collect pollen almost exclusively from willow (Salix) species to provision their nests. The species forms dense nesting aggregations in sandy or gravelly soils, often in open, sun-exposed locations. Adults emerge in early spring, coinciding with the flowering period of willows, making A.
vaga one of the earlier mining bee species active in the year.
help Andrena vaga FAQ
Why is Andrena vaga so closely associated with willow trees?
Female Andrena vaga specialize in collecting pollen from willows in the genus Salix, although adults may take nectar from other flowers. Their spring flight period overlaps with flowering willow catkins, which provide the pollen needed to provision their underground brood cells.
Is Andrena vaga a solitary bee if thousands nest together?
Yes. Each female maintains her own nest, but suitable sandy sites can support aggregations containing hundreds or thousands of separate burrows.
Where does the grey-backed mining bee build its nest?
Andrena vaga usually excavates burrows in open, sparsely vegetated sandy soil, including riverbanks, paths, lawns, and disturbed ground. A useful habitat must combine exposed soil with flowering willows within foraging distance.
When can Andrena vaga be seen in Europe?
It is an early spring bee, commonly active from March into May depending on local weather and latitude. Males often emerge first, followed by females that gather willow pollen for their nests.
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