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The adult is quite small, barely two centimetres in total length, squat and very hairy, and with spindly legs. The long rigid proboscis, although fearsome in appearance, is perfectly harmless, and enables the species to feed on the nectar of many flower, especially primroses. In the field they will be seen hovering and darting above bare ground or flowers, in an up-and-down movement, accompanied by a high-pitched buzz. It is a classic example of a bee mimic, which enables it to get close to solitary wasps and bees, especially the digging variety. When close to their hole, the female flicks the eggs into or near the nests of the host insects. The developing larvae then feed on the food stored, as well as its host, to which it attaches itself. If the female is unable to flick her eggs near the nest she plants them on flowers visited by the host insects.

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Dasypoda altercator is an example of a miner bee, widespread throughout Europe. A solitary bee, it is relatively uncommon and barely one centimeter long. It is characterised by relatively large hind legs covered in a dense yellow hair. As its name suggests, it digs holes in the ground where it nests and uses its hind legs to remove earth as it does so. The male also has yellow hair on his face. They are active from April to September and are common on heaths and coastal dunes. Needless to say, in spite of their striking yellow colouration, they are harmless.

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Yorkshire Wildlife Park

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