Common name(s): Carpenter bee
A large bee, reaching slightly more than 20mm. Female is mainly black. The thorax is covered with deep yellow hairs, making it almost fully yellow except for a small black patch in the centre. The male, on the other hand, is covered with fine yellow hairs, making him fully dark yellow.
This species is quite widely distributed across Southeast Asia, and is one of the commonly seen species in Singapore.
Females of this species are commonly seen feeding from flowers in parks and even schools (many schools in Singapore build and maintain gardens as part of the science syllabus or to encourage responsibility in students). The male is less often seen, since he usually chooses one particular spot and guards it vigorously. Males of this species are the most territorial of the carpenter bees I have observed, and also occupy their territories for very long periods. They will hover and stare down intruders much larger than themselves, even humans! However, they sure know when to beat a hasty retreat, and are alert to movement; a sudden movement towards a male will cause him to disappear at top speed.
This species is quite versatile in choice of nesting sites. However, I noticed that it seldom ever attacks well-maintained surfaces; all man-made structures I found nests in had been neglected for a long time and the wood was starting to break up. In more natural environment, they frequently nest in tree stumps and fallen logs.
Above: Female
Below: Male
