This species is one of two Masked Bees with red abdomens. Both are wetland specialists that have so far only been found near large Lake Champlain marshes.
Female Ornate Masked Bee ©Michael Viet
Identification: The red base of the abdomen eliminates all other species except the Nelumbo Masked Bee (Hylaeus nelumbonis). Some specimens of both species can occasionally lack red, making them very similar to other Masked Bees.
Similar Species: The hind tibia of Nelumbo Masked Bees are half yellow and half black, while they are entirely yellow and orange on Ornate Masked Bees.
Global Status: Not Ranked
Vermont Status: Not Ranked
For more information, visit the following links:
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Living Atlas Species Page
Distribution:
To see the global distribution, check out the iNaturalist account, and toggle the GBIF layer on the map.
