Apidae: Long-Horned Bees (Melissodes and Eucera)
categories: Apidae Bees Pollinators
last review date: 2026-04-26 08:42
Photo by: J. Abel
Biology
Long-horned bees are common with more than 120 species in North America. Males have much longer antennae than females.
Robust and hairy, they are moderate-sized bees (0.3-0.8 inches long) with conspicuously hairy rear legs. Faces are often yellow while abdomens are usually dark-colored and may have bands of pale hair.
The female carries dry pollen in large, conspicuous scopae on the lower half of her rear legs.
Long-horned bees are solitary nesters in the ground where they construct individual nests containing brood cells lined with a wax-like material, each holding one egg and a pollen ball. The nests may be isolated or constructed in groups.
Melissodes are important pollinators of sunflowers, daisies and asters.
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.