At the beginning of August, Belgian environmentalists recorded a remarkable sighting: the rare orange-tailed mason bee (Lithurgus chrysurus) was observed for the first time in the country. This discovery occurred at the provincial domain of De Gavers in Harelbeke, West Flanders.
Until now, the species had only been documented in areas around Paris in France and Frankfurt in Germany. Its appearance in Belgium expands the known range of this elusive bee and signals potential shifts in its habitat distribution.
The orange-tailed mason bee is a medium-sized insect, measuring between 10 and 15 millimetres. Its robust body makes it easily distinguishable. Female bees carry pollen in bright orange hairs on their undersides and have a dark orange tip on their abdomens. A prominent ridge between their eyes is another identifying feature.
This bee species primarily feeds on the pollen of knotweeds, thistles, and other purple flowers. Natuurpunt, the Flemish environmental organisation that announced the discovery, highlighted that De Gavers offers a perfect environment. Sunlit hedges, wooden structures, and flower-rich zones provide both nesting sites and abundant food resources.
De Gavers has been steadily gaining attention as a hotspot for unusual and rare bee species. Prior to this sighting, the first dwarf wool-carder bee in West Flanders was discovered here. This species has a black body with distinctive yellow bands and spots. The rare woolly-armed leafcutter bee has also established a population within the provincial domain.
All three of these bees, including the newly discovered orange-tailed mason bee, are thermophilic, meaning they thrive in warm conditions. They also share a preference for flowers from the same family, making De Gavers’ carefully managed ecosystem ideal for their survival.
Natuurpunt stressed that the discovery underlines the importance of conservation efforts and habitat management. By maintaining sunlit hedges and planting flower-rich zones, De Gavers supports pollinators that are increasingly under threat across Europe.
Experts hope this first Belgian sighting will encourage further research into the orange-tailed mason bee and other rare species. Understanding their distribution, nesting habits, and food preferences can help protect these vital pollinators and preserve local biodiversity.
With climate change and habitat loss posing ongoing challenges, the appearance of this bee highlights the significance of areas like De Gavers. They serve as essential refuges for species that are rare or expanding their ranges in response to changing environmental conditions.
The provincial domain of De Gavers continues to solidify its reputation as a haven for rare insects. Its unique combination of food availability and suitable nesting sites makes it a model for other conservation areas in Belgium and beyond.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
