Tag Archives: oligolectic

Mock-orange scissor bee (Chelostoma philadelphi)

Some photographs of Chelostoma philadelphi, the most common guest at my mason bee hotel in past years. Approximately 7 mm in length and all black unless covered in pollen. Seems to prefer nest holes that are 1/8″ in diameter. In looking at photographs online they seem to show up on a variety of flowers (perhaps with preference for asters), but females are reported (Sedivy et al. 2008) to collect only Philadelphus pollen for use in nest provisions for her brood.  

Chelostoma philadelphi in flight
Chelostoma philadelphi with pollen load
Chelostoma philadelphi
Chelostoma philadelphi
Chelostoma philadelphi covered with pollen