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Blue mason bee

Blue mason bee

Osmia caerulescens

A species of Mason bees, Also known as Blue-gold mason bee

Females Osmia caerulescens are 10–11 mm in length, they are dark blue-black bees with a metallic sheen, which are sparsely covered with brown hairs with those on the abdomen forming a narrow, dense, flattened band on the hind margin of each of the segments. The dense brush of pollen collecting scopae on the underside of the abdomen is jet black. The males are slightly smaller, 9mm, more slender in build, distinctly metallic green and clothed with pale hairs.

General Info About Blue mason bee
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Attributes of Blue mason bee
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
Osmia caerulescens occurs in a wide variety of habitats, including woodland and private gardens.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen
Larva Food Source
Pollen, nectar
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Blue mason bee is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Blue mason bee
Osmia caerulescens is mainly Palearctic and is found over most of Europe and Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. In Great Britain it is mainly found in England and Wales becoming more localised in the north and reaches central Scotland. It is also found in India. The occurrence of O.cearulescens in North America may be the result of introduction by humans. Its North American range is from Minnesota to Nova Scotia, south to Illinois and North Carolina.
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Life Cycle of Blue mason bee
Egg After being laid, the egg of blue mason bee is small and oval. Over time it will increase in size slightly, with the embryo developing internally until it is ready to hatch.
Larva The larva of blue mason bee is grub-like, devoid of wings, with a focus on feeding and growth. Its size increases significantly, and it molts several times before pupation.
Pupal During the pupal stage, blue mason bee is encased in a cocoon, undergoing a dramatic transformation. Its tissues are reorganized, developing wings, antennae, and adult body structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult blue mason bee’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Blue mason bee Larvae
Predatory wasps, birds, rodents
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Scientific Classification of Blue mason bee
Tips for Finding Blue mason bee
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Youth Habitat of Blue mason bee
Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Blue mason bee
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Blue mason bee
Because blue mason bee is a solitary bee, providing nesting materials such as hollow reeds or blocks of wood with holes can attract them for purposes of creating a habitat or for study.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Blue mason bee
Blue mason bee are most active in warm, sunny weather as they are cold-blooded and rely on external temperatures for energy.
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How and Where Can You Find Blue mason bee at Different Life Stages
Larva Look for blue mason bee larvae inside nests made in hollow stems, wood cavities, or bee hotels set up for attracting solitary bees. The larvae are contained within individual cells provisioned with pollen and nectar.
Pupal Blue mason bee pupae remain inside their nesting cells through metamorphosis. Discovering pupae would require the gentle dissection of the bee's nest, which should be avoided to prevent harming the developing blue mason bee.
Adult During the day, search for adult blue mason bee on flowering plants, particularly those that are blue or violet as they are attracted to these colors. They can also be found near potential nest sites like woody areas or where bee hotels are placed.
Are Blue mason bee harmful?
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Are Blue mason bee harmful to humans?

In general, blue mason bee are not harmful to people, they are only interested in pollen and leaves. However, the blue mason bee like other bees, has a tail pin that can be used from the guard. In addition, blue mason bee has a developed and powerful jaw. So please don't mess with them, otherwise the blue mason bee may bite and sting you.
Beneficial Effects of Blue mason bee
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
Blue mason bee is a diligent pollinator, often seen buzzing around fruit trees. Attracted by the vibrant colors and distinct shapes of blossoms, it collects pollen to provision its nests for its larvae. This species plays a crucial role in the pollination of many fruit-bearing plants, ensuring a healthy ecosystem and agricultural productivity.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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