For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the U.K.
Carpenter Bees
Scientific name: Xylocopa violacea
Size: Up to 25mm
Distribution: Found in wooded areas in Europe, but a rare vagrant to the UK.
Months seen: March to October
Habitat: Woodlands and woodland edges
Food: Nectar and pollen
Special features: Carpenter Bees are instantly recognised by their large size and all black body which has a violet sheen. The wings are also have a beautiful metallic violet-blue colour.
Although they are not resident in the UK Carpenter Bees occasionally arrive here from the continent. They make a loud buzzing noise as they fly and are able to move rapidly through the air.
Carpenter Bees get their name from their habit of nesting in dead wood.
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