I made sure to plant squash for the squash bees. Instead of squash bees, I found another bee I’ve been looking for.
Melissodes bimaculata have been one of my favorite bees, ever since I discovered a cluster of males gathering on tall grasses for a slumber party. I saw them from time to time, and they always seemed so perky. When I didn’t find any last year, I was worried, but the squash seems to have brought them back.
This one is a female. It’s not a great picture, but once I got it ID’s on bugguide, I recognize the hairy legs and long antennae. Welcome back, Melissodes!
Writing Every Day 