If you’re a bee enthusiast or just curious about the different types of bees in Michigan, this blog post is for you!
Michigan has many bee species, ranging from small solitary bees to large social honeybees.
This post’ll discuss the different types of bees in Michigan and their unique characteristics.
From tiny sweat bees to massive bumblebees, there’s something for everyone to appreciate in Michigan’s bee population.
So, let’s learn more about the fascinating world of bees in Michigan!
1. Western Honey Bee
Michigan is home to various bee species, but the most common types of bees in Michigan are the Western Honey Bees (Apis mellifera). This type of bee is found all over North America, including Michigan.
The Western Honey Bee is known for its ability to produce large amounts of honey and pollinate a wide variety of crops and plants.
The Western Honey Bee is one of the most important species of bees in Michigan. They are crucial for pollinating many fruits, vegetables, and other plants, providing food sources for humans and other animals.
The honey these bees produce is also used in many foods and products. Without their presence, the state’s agricultural industry would suffer significantly.
Beekeepers often keep Western Honey Bees in hives for their honey production and pollination services.
The hives provide the bees with shelter and food access and allow beekeepers to monitor and control the number of bees in an area.
The use of bee hives helps to protect wild bee populations, as well as allows beekeepers to manage their own bee population.
If you’re interested in learning more about beekeeping or helping out the bee population in Michigan, many resources are available.
There are many ways to get involved, from local beekeepers to beekeeper groups and organizations to research programs focused on studying bee behavior.
2. Eastern Carpenter Bee
The Eastern Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa virginica) is a bee found throughout much of Michigan. They are a large species of bee, ranging from about 0.5-1 inch in length.
The Eastern Carpenter Bee is an important pollinator of wildflowers and other flowering plants in Michigan.
These particular types of bees in Michigan are solitary insects, meaning they do not live in colonies like some other species of bees. Instead, they make individual nests in the trunks and branches of trees.
The Eastern Carpenter Bee makes its nest by using its mandibles to chew away at the wood, creating a cylindrical tunnel with multiple cells at the end.
The Eastern Carpenter Bee is primarily black with yellow or white markings on their bodies. The males often have a yellow or white patch on the face, while females may have yellow or white stripes across their backs.
The Eastern Carpenter Bee also plays an important role in the Michigan ecosystem by pollinating plants and providing food for other species.
While these bees may be seen as a nuisance to some people due to their ability to cause damage to wood structures, they are an important part of our natural environment.
3. Two-Spotted Bumble Bee
The Two-Spotted Bumble Bee (Bombus bimaculatus) is a species of bumble bee found in Michigan.
This species is generally brown or black with two yellow spots on its back and a white or yellow-tipped tail.
They can be seen flying around flowers during the day and prefer to live in open grasslands and fields.
The female Two-Spotted Bumble Bee builds her nest in the ground by digging tunnels and chambers.
These bees are important pollinators of many native wildflowers and crops such as apples, blueberries, and squash. They are also known to feed on nectar from clover and other legumes.
To help protect these important pollinators, creating habitats that provide food, nesting sites, and protection from pesticides is important.
Seeing these buzzing little critters flitting around gardens and wildflowers is always a delight.
If you live in Michigan, watch for one type of bee, the Two-Spotted Bumble Bee!
4. Common Eastern Bumble Bee
The Common Eastern Bumble Bee (Bombus impatiens) is one of Michigan’s most commonly found types of bees.
This species can be identified by its black and yellow stripes and relatively large size compared to other bees in the state.
The Common Eastern Bumble Bee can be found in open fields, gardens, and woodlands throughout Michigan.
Moreover, they can often buzz around flowers while collecting nectar and pollen. These hardworking bees play an important role in pollinating many plants, ensuring the health of Michigan’s agricultural industry.
Additionally, their relatively large size makes them ideal for controlling garden pests like aphids. As with other bee species, the Common Eastern Bumble Bee is essential to the health of our local ecosystems.
5. Tricolored Bumble Bee
The Tricolored Bumble Bee (Bombus ternarius) is one of Michigan’s most common types of bees. This bee is a social insect that lives in colonies and builds nests in the ground.
Its name comes from its distinct black, yellow, and white coloration. It is a solitary bee, meaning that it does not form a hive or live with other members of its species.
The Tricolored Bumble Bee prefers to build its nest in open grasslands and meadows and can be found foraging for pollen and nectar on various flowers.
It is an important pollinator of many wildflowers, fruits, and vegetables, making it an essential part of Michigan’s natural ecosystem.
This one of the types of bees in Michigan has a long tongue that enables it to reach deep into flowers to get nectar and pollen.
The bee can be seen flying around during the spring and summer months. It is an important part of the state’s biodiversity and should be respected and preserved as such.
6. Pure Green-Sweat Bee
Michigan has various bee species, including the Pure Green Sweat Bee. This type of bee is small in size and has a vibrant metallic green color, and you’ll find it buzzing around your garden and around various flowers.
The Pure Green Sweat Bee, also known as (Augochlora pura), is most common in the Midwest and eastern United States.
In Michigan, they tend to be active during the warmer months of the year and usually appear in late spring or early summer.
In particular, these bees in Michigan are quite docile and gentle and tend to avoid people.
Further, they are ground-nesters and live in colonies, so if you spot one, chances are there are many more nearby.
These bees feed primarily on pollen, making them important pollinators for local plants and crops. Their metallic green coloring makes them stand out from other types of bees, and it’s easy to spot them when they’re in full flight.
As their name suggests, their sweat-like smell can also identify these bees. The Pure Green Sweat Bee is a great choice if you’re looking for an interesting insect to watch in your garden. They’re easy to identify, harmless to humans, and great for the environment!
7. Bicolored Striped Sweat Bee
The Bicolored Striped Sweat Bee is one of the types of bees in Michigan and throughout the United States.
As its name suggests, this bee is characterized by its two-tone black and yellow stripes, which are usually more prominent on the abdomen.
It is a ground-nesting bee and can collect pollen from native and introduced plant species.
The Bicolored Striped Sweat Bee belongs to the Halictidae family and is commonly found in grassy or sandy soils. This is where they prefer to nest in shallow burrows or on low vegetation.
Unlike other bee species, it is not aggressive and will not sting unless disturbed.
This bee is an important pollinator of various plants, including crops such as apples, raspberries, strawberries, and clover. It also pollutes some wildflowers, including daisies, thistles, and goldenrod.
The Bicolored Striped Sweat Bee is an important part of Michigan’s ecosystem and contributes significantly to local agriculture.
As with any species, however, its populations can be affected by environmental changes, and it’s important to be aware of how humans can impact their habitat.
8. Lemon Cuckoo-Bumble Bee
The Lemon Cuckoo-Bumble Bee (Bombus citrinus) is one of many types of bees in Michigan that can be found throughout.
These bees are large and yellow, with black stripes and a brown head. They live in small colonies, which range from five to fifteen individuals.
The Lemon Cuckoo-Bumble Bee is an important pollinator in Michigan, feeding on the nectar of many native flowers such as clover, vetch, and goldenrod.
The females have specialized tongues that allow them to drink the nectar of deep flower tubes. This helps to ensure the pollination of these important plants.
Furthermore, these bees typically nest in abandoned rodent burrows but can also make their own nests if needed. Their colonies are much smaller than those of honeybees, with a queen and only a few workers.
The Lemon Cuckoo-Bumble Bee is a valuable member of the Michigan ecosystem. So, it’s important to be mindful of their presence when gardening or participating in outdoor activities.
By providing them with natural food sources, we can help ensure this species thrives for generations.
9. Half-Black Bumble Bee
The Half-Black Bumble Bee (Bombus vagans) is an important bee species in Michigan. This bee is known for its large size, distinctive yellow-orange coloring, and black head.
The Half-Black Bumble Bee is an important pollinator of flowers and crops and can be found in various habitats, from meadows to woodlands.
Unlike some other bumble bees, the Half-Black Bumble Bee can fly in cold temperatures, allowing it to forage for food even in winter.
Its primary food source is nectar, which it collects from many wildflowers. As it feeds on the flowers, it also helps transfer pollen, aiding in pollination.
The Half-Black Bumble Bee has a more solitary lifestyle than most other types of bees in Michigan, so they often live in smaller colonies than other bumble bees.
These colonies typically contain around ten individuals and are less visible to humans than other species’ colonies.
Despite its declining population, the Half-Black Bumble Bee remains an important species in Michigan’s ecosystems.
As the effects of climate change take hold, this species will become increasingly vital in maintaining the balance of the environment.
10. Two-Spotted Longhorn Bee
The Two-Spotted Longhorn Bee (Melissodes bimaculata) is a native bee species found in Michigan that plays an important role in pollinating plants in the area.
This bee has two black spots on its abdomen and is mostly black with a hint of orange around its thorax. The female Two-Spotted Longhorn Bee can reach up to 18 mm long, while the male is slightly smaller, ranging from 13-15 mm.
These specific types of bees in Michigan typically nest in soil or abandoned burrows that other insects dug out. They feed on nectar and pollen from various flowers, including clover, dandelion, and aster.
The Two-Spotted Longhorn Bee is active from April through September and is solitary, meaning they do not live in colonies like some other bee species.
Meanwhile, this bee species is important for crop pollination and is essential to many ecosystems’ health. As the climate changes and urbanization continues, the population of this bee species could be at risk.
It is important to preserve their habitats and to plant native flowering plants to ensure the survival of these bees.
11. Golden Northern Bumble Bee
The Golden Northern Bumble Bee (Bombus fervidus) is a species of bumble bee found in Michigan. It is one of the most common bees in Michigan, and its presence is essential for pollinating many native flowers and plants.
The Golden Northern Bumble Bee has a distinctive black and yellow striped color pattern and can grow up to 1.5 inches long.
This bumble bee species is active during the day, often seen hovering around flowers in search of nectar and pollen.
The Golden Northern Bumble Bee is an excellent pollinator, as it can carry much more pollen on its body than other bumble bee species.
The Golden Northern Bumble Bee is a critical part of Michigan’s ecosystem and a species of concern due to its declining numbers. These bees are often threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
To help conserve this species, we should protect its natural habitat and create safe havens for these important pollinators.
12. European Woolcarder Bee
The European Woolcarder Bee (Anthidium manicatum) is also one of Michigan’s many types of bees. This bee is native to Europe but has been found in parts of Michigan since the early 1990s.
European Woolcarder Bees are small, solitary bees measuring 8-13 mm long. These bees are named for their habit of carrying wool or other fuzzy materials on their hind legs as a source of insulation. They also prefer open, sunny locations with plenty of flowers for foraging.
In addition to that, these bees play an important role in Michigan’s ecosystem. Like other bees, they pollinate plants and help maintain the biodiversity of our environment.
In addition, they may be able to provide benefits to crops and native plants by helping disperse pollen more widely than honeybees can do alone.
If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot a European Woolcarder Bee in your backyard. So please take a moment to appreciate this unique species and its role in our environment!
13. Unequal Cellophane Bee
The Unequal Cellophane Bee (Colletes inaequalis) is a type of bee that can be found in Michigan. It is a small, black bee with bright yellow bands on the abdomen and legs.
The Unequal Cellophane Bee is a solitary bee found in wooded areas, particularly near dead or dying trees.
This species is unique due to its unique cellophane-like, transparent wings. This makes them difficult to spot but easy to identify once you know what to look for.
They feed mainly on nectar and pollen from flowers, including milkweed, aster, goldenrod, and blueberry blossoms.
Besides, the Unequal Cellophane Bee plays an important role in pollinating plants in Michigan, as they are very efficient at carrying pollen from flower to flower.
In addition, they are also beneficial predators, helping to reduce the populations of other harmful insects like aphids.
The Unequal Cellophane Bee is a fascinating species to learn about for those interested in studying the types of bees in Michigan.
It is important to remember, however, that like all species of bee, it is important to keep a respectful distance when observing them in their natural habitat.
14. Perplexing Bumble Bee
Michigan has various bee species, including bumble bees (Bombus perplexus). While you may think of bumble bees as fuzzy yellow and black-striped insects, they come in various sizes, shapes, and colors.
One of Michigan’s most perplexing bumble bee species is the yellow-faced bumble bee (Bombus vosnesenskii).
This bee, of the types of bees in Michigan, is easily identified by its bright yellow face and yellow and black striped body.
It is one of the larger bumble bees found in Michigan and can be seen from late spring through early fall. Yellow-faced bumble bees build their nests in various habitats, including fields, gardens, meadows, and parks.
Additionally, these bees are important pollinators for many plants in Michigan, and their presence has been linked to increased fruit production. They are also important predators of insect pests, helping to balance the local ecosystems.
Although the yellow-faced bumble bee is fairly common throughout Michigan, it is listed as a species of special concern by the state’s Department of Natural Resources. This means that it is vulnerable to habitat loss and other forms of human disturbance.
If you see this incredible bee in your garden or field, please do your part to help protect it.
15. Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee
The Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee (Bombus terricola) is one of the same types of bees in Michigan. This bee can be easily identified by its yellow and black stripes and large size. It is considered a medium-sized bee, growing up to one inch long.
This bee is an important part of the Michigan ecosystem as it helps to pollinate flowers and other plants. It is a social bee that can be seen living in colonies.
The Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee typically makes its nests in the ground or in abandoned animal burrows, such as mouse and rat burrows.
The Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee is an important part of the Michigan ecosystem. Providing vital pollination services helps ensure a healthy balance of flora and fauna in the state.
If you spot one, take a moment to appreciate this majestic creature and its important role in keeping Michigan green and healthy.
16. Broad-Handed Leafcutter
The Broad-Handed Leafcutter (Megachile latimanus) is a species of bee that can be found in the state of Michigan. This bee is solitary and doesn’t live in colonies like other bees.
The Broad-Handed Leafcutter is a large bee with a brown head, thorax, and pale yellowish legs.
Meanwhile, its abdomen is striped with orange, brown, and black stripes. The Broad-Handed Leafcutter is also sometimes called a giant leafcutter because of its size.
This bee can be found across much of North America and prefers to nest in dead or hollow trees. They are also commonly found in bird boxes, hollow logs, and even bee hotels.
Furthermore, the Broad-Handed Leafcutter has an interesting way of gathering food. They use their jaws to cut small circular pieces from leaves; then they use these pieces to create a nest cell, which they line with secretions and resin. They then fill the cells with pollen and nectar, which serves as a food source for their larvae.
This insect, one of the types of bees in Michigan, is an important pollinator for many species of flowers, fruits, and vegetables in Michigan.
As such, it’s important to protect their habitat and ensure that they are not put at risk by habitat loss or other human activities.
17. Oblong Woolcarder Bee
Talk about the important types of bees in Michigan; the Oblong Bee (Anthidium manicatum) is included. As its name implies, this bee belongs to the family Anthidiidae, known for its wool-collecting behaviors.
The Oblong Woolcarder Bee has a distinctive black and yellow banded body and a furry thorax. They are easily identified by their long antennae and the yellow hairs that cover their abdomen.
These bees can grow up to one centimeter in length and have an average wingspan of three centimeters.
Equally important to note, the Oblong Woolcarder Bee (Anthidium oblongatum) is an important pollinator in Michigan.
It collects pollen from various plants, including flowering trees, shrubs, and fruits and vegetables. This bee also plays an important role in controlling certain insect pests, such as aphids.
The Oblong Woolcarder Bee lives in small colonies that often consist of just a few individuals. They build their nests in cavities and sheltered places, such as hollow logs, old stumps, or the bark of trees. The nests are made of a mixture of wool and mud.
Michigan is home to many other types of bees, but the Oblong Woolcarder Bee is one of the most important pollinators in the state.
Give it some space if you’re lucky enough to spot one in your garden or backyard!
18. Pugnacious Leafcutter Bee
The Pugnacious Leafcutter Bee (Megachile pugnata) is a type of bee that is native to Michigan and can be found throughout much of the state.
These bees are about half an inch long, have black and white stripes on their abdomens, and are often seen buzzing around in gardens and fields.
Unlike other types of bees in Michigan, the Pugnacious Leafcutter Bee collects leaves to line the cells of its nests.
It uses its sharp mandibles to cut pieces of leaves, which it rolls into tubes and then uses these to construct its nest. These bees are solitary, meaning they live and work alone rather than in a colony like honeybees.
Also, the Pugnacious Leafcutter Bee is an important pollinator, helping to transfer pollen between flowers so that they can produce fruits and vegetables.
In addition to pollinating, this species helps to control aphid populations, as it feeds on aphid secretions and pollen.
To sum up, these bees can be found throughout much of Michigan during the spring and summer, making them a common sight in many backyards and gardens.
While they are generally docile and pose no real threat to humans or pets, observing them from a distance as they do their work is best.
19. Golden Sweat Bee
The Golden Sweat Bee (Augochlorella aurata) is one of Michigan’s important types of bees. This type of bee is vital in pollinating various crops and plants throughout the state. It is an important species that helps keep the Michigan ecosystem healthy.
The Golden Sweat Bee, one of the types of bees in Michigan, gets its name from its bright yellow-gold color.
The bee has distinct black markings around the face and thorax. Its wings are a deep black or dark brown color. The bee is usually around 12 mm in size, making it one of the larger bee species in the area.
The Golden Sweat Bee can be found in most parts of Michigan and other Midwest and Northeast United States areas.
The bee prefers open, grassy areas such as meadows, fields, and parks. They tend to forage for pollen and nectar on flowers of many types, including dandelions, daisies, clovers, vetch, and more.
Though Golden Sweat Bees are generally non-aggressive toward humans, they will sting if threatened. Fortunately, their sting is typically not severe, so it’s important to remember to give them space and respect when outdoors.
The Golden Sweat Bee is an important part of Michigan’s ecosystem and pollutes many plants and crops.
If you encounter one of these bees while enjoying the outdoors, take a moment to appreciate them!
20. Northern Amber Bumble Bee
The Northern Amber Bumble Bee, Bombus Borealis, is one of Michigan’s many bees. This particular bee species is native to the northern parts of the United States and southern Canada.
The Northern Amber Bumble Bee is a large, hairy bee with a yellow or reddish-brown color on its abdomen and a black head and thorax.
Moreover, these bees can be seen from mid-May to late August in Michigan, visiting flowers for nectar and pollen.
Northern Amber Bumble Bees are important pollinators, playing an essential role in the environment by pollinating plants and helping ensure human food security.
These bees help with pollination and other benefits, such as helping control pests, providing food for birds and other wildlife, and improving soil fertility.
The Northern Amber Bumble Bee is a beneficial species that can be easily spotted in Michigan during the summer months.
Be sure to avoid disturbing them when you come across them in your garden or elsewhere outdoors.
21. Orange-Legged Furrow Bee
The Orange-Legged Furrow Bee (Halictus rubicundus) is a bee native to Michigan. This bee is about 8 to 10 mm long and has black and orange coloring on its abdomen and legs.
It gets its name from the reddish-orange furrow on its face, distinguishing it from other bee species.
The Orange-Legged Furrow Bee is an important pollinator in Michigan, as it feeds on flowers such as wild strawberries, cow vetch, and yellow corydalis.
This bee prefers to nest in sandy soil or dry grass, making it easy to spot in Michigan’s fields and meadows.
Uniquely, the Orange-Legged Furrow Bee is one of many types of bees in Michigan. Other bee species found in the state include the Large Carpenter Bee, the European Honey Bee, and the Bumble Bee.
Each of these bees plays an important role in pollinating Michigan’s flowers and plants, helping to maintain the state’s unique biodiversity.
22. Silky Striped Sweat Bee
The Silky Striped Sweat Bee (Agapostemon sericeus) is one of Michigan’s most common types of bees. This bee belongs to the Halictidae family and is typically small, only 8-11 mm long.
The unique characteristic of this bee species is its striped yellow and black coloring, giving it the appearance of silky stripes. This bee has various food sources, such as nectar, pollen, and decaying fruit.
The Silky Striped Sweat Bee is also a solitary bee, meaning it does not form colonies or hives like other bee species.
These bees prefer to live alone or in small groups, but they can be found in large numbers during their peak season in early summer.
Although these bees are not overly aggressive, they will sting if provoked or if they sense danger. If you happen to come across one of these bees, it’s best to leave them alone and admire them from afar.
23. Wilke’s Mining Bee
One of the popular types of bees in Michigan that you will find today is the Wilke’s Mining Bee (Andrena wilkella).
This type of bee can be found in woodlands and open meadows throughout the state. These bees have a black and yellow color pattern and are about 8-12 millimeters long.
Going further, these solitary bees make their nests in small burrows that they dig into the soil. They form their nests in groups and can be seen hovering around their nesting site. They feed on pollen and nectar from various flowers.
Wilke’s Mining Bees are important pollinators and help to increase the number of flowering plants in an area. They are also an important food source for other insects and animals.
The Wilke’s Mining Bee is a great example of Michigan’s diverse types of bees!
24. Orange-Tipped Wood-Digger
One of Michigan’s most interesting types of bees is the orange-tipped wood-digger bee (Anthophora terminalis).
This bee can be found in most parts of the state and is particularly active in early spring and late summer.
The orange-tipped wood-digger bee is solitary, meaning that it lives and nests alone. This bee is most often seen in wooded areas or among flowering plants and shrubs. As their name suggests, they are quite adept at digging out nesting tunnels into wood or soil.
What’s more? These bees are relatively small, measuring between 3 and 7 millimeters in length. They have a distinctive yellow-orange band on their abdomen, hence the orange-tipped moniker.
They also have fuzzy brown fur and a silvery-white tail, which helps distinguish them from other types of bees in Michigan.
The orange-tipped wood-digger bee collects pollen from various flowers, including clovers and asters. They are especially attracted to white flowers, such as hawthorn, crabapple, blackberry, and wild cherry trees.
Like many other bees, orange-tipped wood-digger bees help to pollinate the plants in Michigan’s forests, fields, and gardens.
If you’re looking for bees in your garden, keep an eye out for these little buzzing friends! We are done with this list of the different types of bees in Michigan!
