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Common Mini Mining Bee (Andrena minutula)

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description Common Mini Mining Bee (Andrena minutula) Overview

Andrena minutula, commonly called the common mini-mining bee, is a very small solitary bee in the family Andrenidae. It occurs widely in Europe and nests in soil, with each female excavating and provisioning her own brood cells rather than living in a worker-based colony. Adults visit a broad range of flowers and may produce more than one generation in a year, although its small size and similarity to related species can make field identification difficult.

help Common Mini Mining Bee (Andrena minutula) FAQ

How small is Andrena minutula?

Andrena minutula is known as the common mini-mining bee because it is a very small solitary bee. Its small size helps distinguish it from many larger Andrena species, but exact measurements vary by sex and specimen.

Where does Andrena minutula nest?

It nests in soil, with each female excavating her own nest. Unlike a honey bee or bumblebee, it does not live in a worker-based colony.

Does Andrena minutula have worker bees?

No, it is solitary. Each female digs nest tunnels, creates brood cells, gathers pollen and nectar, and provisions her own offspring.

When is Andrena minutula active?

Adults are active during the flowering season when pollen and nectar are available. The exact flight period depends on local climate and the plants flowering in that region.

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