These native bees are typically a metallic green or blue color (especially the head and thorax). There are 44 species in the genus, ranging from Canada to Argentina. They are called “sweat bees” because they are closely related to, and resemble bees in the Halictus and Lasioglossum genera. However, Agapostemon are not attracted to human sweat like the other sweat bees. Females collect and carry pollen on scopal hairs located on their hind legs.
Size: 0.3 to 0.6 inches (7 to 14.5 mm) long
Photo by: Glenn Marangelo on 5/29/22 near Stevensville, MT