Cuckoo Bee Collection
The Cuckoo Bee, also known as Melecta albifrons, is a fascinating species that can be found in various parts of Europe
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The Cuckoo Bee, also known as Melecta albifrons, is a fascinating species that can be found in various parts of Europe. This particular image captures a moment just after dawn in Hertfordshire, England, UK during the month of May. In the photo, we see a Cuckoo Bee roosting on vegetation by clamping onto it with its mandibles. It hangs on for the night, showcasing its unique behavior and adaptation to its surroundings. The European larch tree (Larix decidua) serves as the backdrop for this incredible sight. But what makes this bee even more intriguing is its relationship with other bees, and is considered a cuckoo bee because it lays its eggs in the nests of stingless melipona honey bees (Melipona favosa). The female Cuckoo Bee sneaks into their nests and deposits her eggs there, leaving them to be raised by unsuspecting host bees. This image reminds us of another member of the Nomada genus - the Painted nomad bee (Nomada fucata), which can be identified by its distinctive green eyes while sleeping peacefully. Similarly, we have sightings of Fabricius Nomad Bees (Nomada fabriciana) at burrows belonging to Mining Bees (Andrena bicolor) in Norfolk and gardens across Wales where they feed on Bell Heather flowers. Other members of this diverse family include Nomad Bees like Nomada leucophthalma and Nomada lathburiana found in different regions such as Dungeness RSPB Reserve in Kent and Leicestershire respectively. These bees play vital roles within their ecosystems through pollination activities. We must not forget about Barbuts Cuckoo Bumblebee (Bombus barbutellus), an adult female captured here feeding on Vipers Bugloss flowers (Echium vulgare). This interaction between species highlights nature's interconnectedness and the importance of biodiversity.