Sleepy Carpenter Bee - Chelostoma florisomne

A larger version of the more frequently encountered C. campanularum; of the same general long, thin cylindrical shape, but with distinctive white bands of short hairs on the apices of the abdominal segments. The males also have a two-pronged peg on the final segment of the abdomen and this may be used in the same way as that on the males of C. campanularum but that remains uncertain.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Most often associated with the interface between woodland and meadow where buttercups are present. It is not regularly found in gardens.

Univoltine; May to July.

Oligolectic on Ranunculaceae. It is notable as one of the few bees ever to be found in the flowers of this plant family.

Found throughout England and Wales but uncommon elsewhere in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.