DESCRIPTION: Length up to 15mm.  Otherwise known as the Hairy Footed Flower Bee this solitary species comes in a range of colour forms. The body is densely hairy with males usually covered in bright-reddish orange or gray hair whilst females are usually darker to black. Males have long hairs on the mid-tarsi, females have orange scopal hairs on the hind tibia. The long tufts of black hairs on the tarsi (hence the Latin word plumipes) are used as a visual signal during mating. BEHAVIOUR: Females build nests in slopes and walls of mud where they excavate cells which they fill with pollen and nectar which is food for the larvae. Both sexes are quick on the wing and dart from flower to flower before seemingly disappearing to who knows where. Favoured flowers include Lungwort, Dead-Nettles and Comfrey. DISTRIBUTION: Found throughout much of England and Wales, with a few recent records from Scotland. HABITAT: Prefers gardens, open woodland, and coastal sites. PERIOD: Usually on the wing form late March to early June.