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Digger Bee

Anthophora bomboides

Large fuzzy mining bee with robust body and pollen-laden legs. Solitary nester in sandy soil; powerful forager for early spring wildflowers.

Plants that support Digger Bee

4 plants

Alameda County Thistle

Cirsium quercetorum

moderate

perennial herb

Pollen collection for nest provisioning

Bay Area native

Cobwebby Thistle

Cirsium occidentale var. venustum

moderate

annual

Specialist pollen collector on thistle flowers

Bay Area native

Mountain Coyote Mint

Monardella odoratissima

high

perennial herb

Early spring forager; important for spring colony establishment

Bay Area native

Western Azalea

Rhododendron occidentale

moderate

shrub

Spring nesting season food source, April-May

Bay Area native