This small bee is a member of the family Halictidae known as sweat bees. It is small (about 1 cm) dark brown, with fine yellowy white bands across the apices of the abdominal segments, and a yellow fuzz of hairs on the tip of the abdomen. The legs are often somewhat orangey.

Most solitary bees and wasps are difficult to identify, and can rarely be identified from photos taken in the field.  All red-rated records should include a photo, or set of photos, showing the key characters, which may require the specimen. Please include a face shot, side, top and wings.  Note whether male or female, explain how the specimen met the key characters and the key used.  We will accept records identified by a recognised local or national expert, or that have been identified via the BWARS’ Facebook noting the name of the person/organisation identifying the record (e.g. ‘Stuart Roberts, BWARS Facebook’).

Flower rich meadows and verges.

Spring to late summer.

H. rubicundus nests are constructed in the ground. Nests are dug in spring by a single female who typically rears a brood of 5-7 offspring.

Fairly common and widespread in Britain.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.