Description

Body length 7 - 14mm. The head is black with black hairs and the thorax and abdomen dark with a covering of brown hairs on the thorax and reddish hairs on the abdomen. The males have a narrower abdomen. The female has two short horns on its face.

Habitat

Often found around buildings and gardens. It will make holes in soft mortar to build its nest chambers.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in lowland England and Wales but more sporadic in Scotland. Common in Nottinghamshire and recorded at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

March to July.