macleanpics
European Wood Carder Bees copulating
Each time that a female bee approached a plant, the male would either drive it away or if it lit, would immediately seize it as above. Thus I was not able to get a decent photo of the female but in this photo one can see the broad yellow abdominal bands of the female. The males have three thorns at the apex of their abdomens which they use as weapons to defend their territory. Nancy watched two males locked together rolling over on the ground. No damage was done as they both flew away. Very pugnacious critters. These bees are especially attracted to Hyssop & in this case to Anise Hyssop. Since those plants are usually found in gardens it may be this has helped their quick spread across the continent.
European Wood Carder Bees copulating
Each time that a female bee approached a plant, the male would either drive it away or if it lit, would immediately seize it as above. Thus I was not able to get a decent photo of the female but in this photo one can see the broad yellow abdominal bands of the female. The males have three thorns at the apex of their abdomens which they use as weapons to defend their territory. Nancy watched two males locked together rolling over on the ground. No damage was done as they both flew away. Very pugnacious critters. These bees are especially attracted to Hyssop & in this case to Anise Hyssop. Since those plants are usually found in gardens it may be this has helped their quick spread across the continent.