The Polyester Bee lines its nest cells with a cellophane-like waterproof polyester secretion produced by a salivary gland — a material functionally identical to some synthetic plastics. This lining protects the pollen provision and egg from moisture. It is one of the earliest bees to emerge in spring in the East and nests in aggregations in sandy soil. Females collect pollen almost exclusively from willows in early spring.
Habitat
Sandy banks, sunny woodland paths, and spring-flowering areas
Diet
Adults and larvae: willow pollen in spring, later diverse flowers
How common
Common
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