Hylaeine Bees are found on EVERY continent except Antarctica.
They have facial markings that resemble the emarginate eyes of wasps. More than 200 species are distributed throughout Australia.
The facial markers that earn them the “masked” label are usually more elaborate in males.
They usually nest in holes in wood, made and abandoned by borers. Some nest in crevices in rocks. They line the nest with cellophane-like fibres.
Hylaeine Bee buzz pollinating Melastoma Video
Want a Pocket-book Guide to help you identify Australian bees in your garden? This is my favourite:
Bees & other beneficial insects: a pocket-book guide by Megan Halcroft. Buy it here.
Other relevant resources:
YouTube Australian Bee Playlist
Aussie Bee – lots of information!
Australian Bee Diversity with Dr Tobias Smith
Jane Grows Garden Rooms 