Resin Bees - Megachile sp.

Resin Bees come in many colours and sizes and there are about 100 Australian species. There are large black 14 mm bees with white tufts of hair, and small 8 mm black bees with bright orange abdomens. 

They nest in pre-existing holes or gaps in timber or stonework. They are called Resin Bees because they collect resins and gums to build partitions between their brood cells and to seal their nest holes. 

Beekeepers sometimes notice Resin Bees hanging around Stingless Bee hives, trying to ‘borrow’ a little resin for their nests. They are common residents in Bee Hotels. 

Information and Photo by Aussie Bee www.aussiebee.com.au/resin_bee.html