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bee Carpenter Bees

Identify It >   Creepy-crawlies Section >   Carpenter Bees >

Scientific name:  Xylocopa violacea

Size:  Up to 25mm

Distribution:  Found in wooded areas in Europe, but a rare vagrant to the UK.

Months seen:  March to October

Habitat:  Woodlands and woodland edges

Food:  Nectar and pollen

Special features:  Carpenter Bees are instantly recognised by their large size and all black body which has a violet sheen.  The wings are also have a beautiful metallic violet-blue colour.

Although they are not resident in the UK Carpenter Bees occasionally arrive here from the continent.  They make a loud buzzing noise as they fly and are able to move rapidly through the air.

Carpenter Bees get their name from their habit of nesting in dead wood.

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