Contact: Eric Day, Manager, Insect Identification Laboratory
Size: The sweat bee is a small metallic green bee that is commonly seen in the summer. Less than 1/2 inch (12mm), usually less than 1/4 inch (6mm)
Color: Metallic green
Description: The sweat bee is a small metallic green bee that is commonly seen in the summer.
Habitat: Sweat bees build small nests in the ground, often in the form of a colony. They stock the nest with pollen. Adult bees also feed on nectar and are important pollinators of many plants. Unfortunately, they are also attracted to sweat.
Type Of Damage: It is attracted to perspiration and stings when touched or disturbed. The sting though is usually very minor.
Control: Control is usually not recommended because of the sweat bee's beneficial nature. Individual sweat bees can be crushed or sprayed with an aerosol if necessary.
