Osmia cornuta

Description

Dark thorax with dark hairs and bright orange-red abdomen (more strongly contrasting than Osmia bicornis). Long  inwardly-curved facial horns on the head below the antennae (longer than in Osmia bicornis). Males have a large patch of long white hairs on the face. 

Similar Species

Osmia bicornis

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Detailed photos show key identification features required.

Habitat

In a variety of habitats including urban places, and really loves bee hotels. This species can be an important pollinator of fruit trees. 

When to see it

Adults fly from March to late May, with males appearing before females. Generally flies earlier than Osmia bicornis. 

UK Status

First recorded in London in 2014, now expanding its range.

VC55 Status

First record 2025. 

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Common names
White-faced Mason Bee
Species group:
Bees, Wasps, Ants
Kingdom:
Order:
Family:
Records on NatureSpot:
1
First record:
31/03/2025 (Cann, Alan)
Last record:
31/03/2025 (Cann, Alan)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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