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larose forest photos | all galleries >> INSECTS (INSECTA) (28 Galleries) >> Bees, Wasps, Sawflies and Ants (Hymenoptera) (22 Sub-galleries) >> Bees (8 Sub-galleries) >> Leafcutter Bees, Mason Bees, and Allies (Megachilidae) > Leafcutter bee making nest case out of leaves
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01-AUG-2009 Christine Hanrahan

Leafcutter bee making nest case out of leaves

Turning over rocks to look for snakes and salamanders, we came across this Megachilid bee constructing her nest case. She meticulously cuts small sections of leaves and carries them back to her chosen spot to make the case. When finished, it looks like a cigar. Inside she lays her eggs and stocks the tube with pollen for her young to eat.


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Paolo Peggi (aka Bracciodiferro)21-Jul-2011 14:49
Excellent work! Vote
Paolo
Ulla Kruys21-Jul-2011 11:50
Beautiful and quite amazing!
j>a>e>17 :):):)21-Jul-2011 06:00
what an AWEmazing builder making her purest heaertsingin' honey home!!!!! :):):):):)
Margot W25-Feb-2011 22:33
That is a very caring mum. Great find.
Colin Storey25-Feb-2011 22:10
Superb macro work and information. v
slhoornstra25-Feb-2011 19:45
I once found one or two of these amazing egg cases and carefully replaced them. I was astounded at the beauty of the leaves, petals, and the meticulous, delicate construction, seeing is believing!! V
Valene25-Feb-2011 19:39
Beautiful image, and I love your detailed information. V
Graeme25-Feb-2011 19:00
A lovely capture Christine.V
Stephanie25-Feb-2011 16:33
Such fascinating information Christine!!! V
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