Leafcutter Bee in action.
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Enjoy an image from our new member, Chris Connolly of a leafcutter bee in action, Megachile centuncularis at Balmacara on 22nd July 2023. This is a confirmed new record by Murdo Macdonald, HBRG for NG82. . This species is not common in the West, however one was seen on the Plock during 2022.
As their name suggests, they cut discs out of leaves gluing them together with saliva to build the 'cells' in which their larvae live. The larvae hatch and develop, pupating in autumn and hibernating over winter. The leafcutter bee is on the wing from April to August, and feeds solely on pollen and nectar.
Chris and Kath noticed the bee making a nest in their garden accessing a void under a window frame. Ironically, rather than the bee hotel provided nearby.
Image courtesy of Kath Connolly.
