Agapostemon

Genus Agapostemon

A conspicuous metallic green bee seen in the islands’ coastal meadows from early spring to late summer. Females are solid green, while males have a clearly banded abdomen.

Females over-winter in ground nests, and sometimes congregate and build multiple nest chambers off a shared entry tunnel, which reduces the likelihood that eggs and provisions will be left unguarded. The males are also gregarious, and can often be seen congregating on flowers to sleep at night.

In the San Juan Islands, Agapostemon can emerge early in spring and remain active until early September. They appear to be opportunistic, visiting whichever flowers are available in dry open meadows.

Agapostemon texanus

female), Iceberg Point, Lopez Island

Agapostemon texanus (male),

Iceberg Point, Lopez Island