description Colletes cunicularius Overview
Colletes cunicularius, commonly known as the spring mining bee, is a solitary bee species described by Carl Linnaeus in 1761. These bees are found across Europe and parts of Asia, where they emerge in early spring to create nesting burrows in sandy soils, particularly in coastal dunes. Females collect pollen primarily from willow (Salix) flowers, and the species is known for forming impressive nesting aggregations with thousands of individuals in suitable habitats.
help Colletes cunicularius FAQ
When does Colletes cunicularius appear, and why is it called the spring mining bee?
Colletes cunicularius is an early-season solitary bee, and Carl Linnaeus described it in 1761. In Britain it is associated with open sandy habitats, including coastal dunes where creeping willow, Salix repens, grows. [Bee Traits](https://beetraits.linnaeus.naturalis.nl/linnaeus_ng/app/views/species/nsr_taxon.php?cat=TAB_NESTING_TRAIT&id=417)
Does it live in a hive like a honey bee?
No. Colletes cunicularius belongs to the solitary-bee genus Colletes, unlike the colony-forming honey bee Apis mellifera, although many females may nest close together. [Natural History profile](https://www.wildbienen.de/eb-ccuni.htm)
What kind of ground does Colletes cunicularius need for nesting?
Females dig brood burrows in open, sandy soil rather than building nests in wood or using artificial hives. Large nesting aggregations can form on sandy slopes, so a site may look like a colony even though each female raises her own offspring. [Bee Traits](https://beetraits.linnaeus.naturalis.nl/linnaeus_ng/app/views/species/nsr_taxon.php?cat=TAB_NESTING_TRAIT&id=417)
Is Colletes cunicularius found only in Europe?
No. It is a Palearctic species found across Europe and parts of Asia, with records extending far beyond Britain. Its habitat is usually sparsely vegetated sand, especially coastal dune systems. [Species overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colletes_cunicularius)
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
