This is a late fall species, most often associated with asters (Genus Symphyotrichum) though also visits goldenrod.
Identification: Like many other Cellophane bees, this species is roughly honey bee sized with abundant hair and thin white bands on the abdomen. Unlike some of the other fall species, this one has a medium to long malar space (ie cheek length).
Similar Species: In the field, this species probably appears most similar to the Spine-shouldered Cellophane Bee (Colletes simulans) but can often be separated by the length of the cheek, overall hair color, and perhaps completeness of the abdominal hair bands.
Known or suspected parasites: Autumnal Cellophane-Cuckoo (Epeolus autumnalis)
Global Status: Secure (G5)
Vermont Status: Not Ranked
For more information, visit the following links:
Discover Life
Living Atlas Species Page
Distribution: To see the global distribution, check out the iNaturalist account, and toggle the GBIF layer on the map.
