Andrenidae: Mining and Miner Bees
categories: Andrenidae Bees Pollinators
last review date: 2026-04-26 08:15
Photo by: D. James
Biology
The Andrenidae are a large, nearly cosmopolitan family of solitary, ground-nesting bees. Andrena is a large and diverse genus of about 400 species in North America, and many are specialist pollinators whose life cycle is timed to the blooming of specific flowers.
Andrenidae are abundant in spring and are among the first bees to emerge in late winter. They are small to moderate-sized bees (0.3-0.7 inches) and most are black, blue or green and moderately hairy. They have large pollen-collecting hairs on the upper part of their hind legs.
Andrenid females dig burrows into sandy soil and although solitary, nest in aggregations. There is only one emergence annually, usually in early spring.
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.