Meet the Long-Horned Bees: Uniquely Beautiful, Fuzzy Pollinators.
A fuzzy long-horned bee in a golden sunflower | Genus Melissode | Photo by Kristen O’Hara
These bees, from tribe Eucerini, are some of the most hardworking creatures in your garden & they come with a pair of extra-long antennae and soft, golden fuzz. These bees are particularly eye-catching, with males sporting antennae so long they seem to be feeling their way through the air. And if that wasn’t enough, many of them have striking blue or green eyes, making them some of the most beautiful pollinators you’ll encounter.
But these bees aren’t just about looks—they’re incredibly important pollinators. They’re especially fond of sunflowers and squash blossoms. They can be found buzzing around gardens and open spaces from mid-summer to early fall, collecting pollen from native plants and popular garden cultivars on their fluffy bodies, ensuring the plants thrive. Their thick coats are perfect for carrying pollen from one flower to the next, playing a vital role in the health of our gardens and ecosystems.
Though they live solitary lives, where females make nests in the ground, long-horned male bees have charming habits that might surprise you. In the early morning, you can often find them snoozing on flowers—sometimes several bees at once—looking like they’ve found the world’s coziest bed. Who wouldn’t want to wake up surrounded by sunflowers?
So next time you’re out in the garden, keep an eye out for these furry, antennae-clad pollinators. With their golden fuzz, long antennae, and colorful eyes, they’re more than just pretty—they’re essential workers helping to keep your garden blooming!
Profile by Kristen O’Hara