Southwest Digger Bee

Identification

• Color: Typically orange or yellow and black.
• Size: Ranges from about 3/8 to 3/4 inch in length.
• Body: Fuzzy appearance with a robust body, well-adapted for digging.

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Behavior 

Southwest Digger Bees are known for their ground-nesting habits. Each female digs her own burrow to serve as a nest where she will lay her eggs and provide pollen and nectar for the developing larvae. These bees are most active during the warmer months and are non-aggressive, rarely stinging unless stepped on or directly handled. These native bees as especially suited for pollinating our local cactus like saguaro, prickly pear, and cholla.

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Threats 

Southwest Digger Bees are considered a beneficial native bee and do not pose a threat to people or pets.

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Control Measures 

Effective management of Southwest Digger Bees involves:

• Habitat Modification: Altering the landscape to discourage nesting by compacting soil or adding decorative rock or mulch can reduce the suitability of the area for bee burrows.
• Physical Barriers: Using landscaping fabric or other barriers over sandy areas to prevent bees from accessing the soil.
• Education and Awareness: Informing the public about the non-aggressive nature of these bees and the importance of their role in pollination can help reduce fear and promote coexistence.

Bill’s Home Service prioritizes environmentally friendly methods to manage Southwest Digger Bees, ensuring that they can continue their beneficial roles without interfering with human activities.

For more information about Southwest Digger Bees in Tucson and Southern Arizona, contact Bill’s Home Service at (520) 277-2720.