"Nests are built in exposed riverbanks, holes in the soil, sand dunes, or among plant roots (Wilson and Carril 2016). Nests are also built above ground in preexisting natural cavities in wood, hollow stems, or rock crevices, as well as in exposed areas on rocks or twigs (Wilson and Carril 2016). Nests are composed of pebbles, sand, and occasionally pieces of plants with resins. Nests consist of one or more cells in a single chamber or as separated clusters of cells and sometimes with a parchment-like membranous lining (Grigarick and Stange 1968)." [source]
Two-celled cluster made of sand and possibly plant matter, "parchment-like" inner layer obvious with a little probing, estimating roughly 10-15mm tall by 5-10mm wide. Thumb for scale, and an earwig can be seen in the first photo. Roughly 1.5ft above ground level.
9/22/24 update: Could no longer locate either nest, nor was I able to find any new ones after several hours of searching.
"Nests are built in exposed riverbanks, holes in the soil, sand dunes, or among plant roots (Wilson and Carril 2016). Nests are also built above ground in preexisting natural cavities in wood, hollow stems, or rock crevices, as well as in exposed areas on rocks or twigs (Wilson and Carril 2016). Nests are composed of pebbles, sand, and occasionally pieces of plants with resins. Nests consist of one or more cells in a single chamber or as separated clusters of cells and sometimes with a parchment-like membranous lining (Grigarick and Stange 1968)." [source]
Two-celled chamber made of sand and possibly plant matter, apparent visible "parchment-like" layer between cells, estimating roughly 10-15mm tall by 5-10mm wide. Roughly a foot off the ground.
9/22/24 update: Could no longer locate either nest, nor was I able to find any new ones after several hours of searching.
Biggest bee I've ever seen! I can't find a good match. There are two clear orange stripes on the abdomen. But it's way too big to be a red belted bumblebee? Please help!
Reared from Disholcaspis mellifica gall. Date reflects collection date.
https://inaturalist.ca/observations/145396904