Common Yellow-face Bee - Hylaeus communis

Size 6 to 8 mm. Males can be distinguished by the facial markings with the yellow on the face obviously divided by black bands and curling around the antennal sockets. Females have far more restricted yellow on the face, just a small patch lying against the edge of the eye. The antennae are entirely dark below and the hind tibia has a prominent yellow ring on the basal quarter to a half. The corners of the prothorax are prominent and strongly angled.

• lacks a fringe of white hairs at base of tergite 1
• has a band of sparce punctures on apical third of tergite 1 (needs good magnification)

Include photos showing the key characters, including a face shot, side, top and wings.  Note whether male or female and explain how the specimen met the key characters and the key used.  Records identified by a recognised local or national expert will be accepted. If identified via the BWARS’ Facebook note the name of the person/organisation identifying the record (e.g. ‘Stuart Roberts, BWARS Facebook’) and quote the comment received.

Feeds on a range of flowers and often found in gardens.

Peak time around July.

Probably the commonest of this group in the UK.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.