Amegilla cingulata… Common Blue-banded Bee. length 10mm to 12mm.
A. Cingulata are attractive solitary bees and originate from Australia. They have the unique ability to “Buzz pollinate” Flowers. The bee will tightly grip the anthers of a flower and vibrate rapidly, causing the flower to release more pollen. This is known as a technical term called “sonication”. This technique increases crop yields for some plants. These bees have become very important pollinators in Australia and have played a very important part in producing at least 30% of crops in Australia.
They also have a more rapid distinctive flight pattern than other bees, While in flight A. cingulata produce a louder buzzing sound and have a more placid nature; compared to most honey bees. However, they can and will sting if feel threatened.
Females have four “blue” bands compared to the males five coloured bands.
Habitats and nesting…. Gardens, Forests, open woodlands and heathlands. Nests are usually built in open soil, dried up river banks, soft sandstone and soft mortar between bricks. Although Amegilla cingulata are solitary bees the females tend to favour building their nests close to other Blue-banded female nests. They will construct a number of cells with waterproof secretions, then she will lay her egg in the deepest cell and stock it with pollen and nectar for the larval food before sealing. She will continue laying her eggs until all the cells are filled and sealed.
Males do not help to construct the nest, in the evening just before nightfall they will roost nearby the nesting sites in small groups with other A. cingulata males, clinging to long grass stalks and thin twigs by using their mandibles.
Flowers visited as seen in the images below, includes: Sweet Alison, Lantana Camara and Common Ragwort.