Cuckoo Bumblebee vs Fringed Leafcutter Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cuckoo Bumblebee | Fringed Leafcutter Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bombus vestalis | Megachile fidelis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Apidae | Megachilidae |
| Size | 15-22mm | 11-14 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Parasites | Pollen Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Western North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cuckoo Bumblebee
A social parasite that invades buff-tailed bumblebee nests, kills the queen and enslaves the workers.
Did You Know?
Enters the nest of its host species, fights and kills the queen, then forces the workers to raise her own offspring.
Fringed Leafcutter Bee
A western North American leafcutter bee recognized by the dense fringe of golden hairs on its hind legs used for pollen transport. It nests in the ground, unusual for its genus.
Did You Know?
Unlike most leafcutter bees that nest in cavities, it excavates burrows directly into sandy soil.