Nomada
A genus of clepto-parasitic bees which resemble wasps, often having black and yellow banding on the abdomen. Each species specialises on one or two host species, meaning that identification can often be aided by observing the species which the Nomada is associating with. There are 28 British species, some of which are so similar that a specimen is required for identification. In other cases, the pattern on the abdomen, presence of spots on the thorax and the colour of the tegulae (where the wings attach) are important ID characteristics. Males and females often differ in size and colouration.
Nomada goodeniana
One of two common species with yellow and black markings only on the abdomen. Distinguished from the other (marshamella) by the yellow tegulae, and from the rarer fulvicornis by the lack of any red around the yellow on the abdomen, and the shape of the facial markings. Males usually have characteristic antennae darkened to half-way on top.
Nomada marshamella
The other common species with black and yellow markings on the abdomen, readily recognised by the red tegulae. Females also have limited red (rather than yellow) markings on the face, and all orange antennae.
Nomada fulvicornis
Species with mostly red abdomens
