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Mystery flying bug #240970

Asked May 01, 2015, 2:06 PM EDT

Help please! I've noticed for the last 3-4 wks hundreds if not thousands of these little flying bugs buzzing in and out hundreds little holes (the size of the tip of a pencil) in the bare ground on my veg garden plot (haven't planted anything yet). They are very little, 2 slim wings, resemble like a cross between a tiny bee with a flying ant, they are not aggressive but when touched they emit a buzzing vibration, they are not furry, their butts and legs have yellowish stripes on them...6 legs and 2 slim wings, what are they? can I still plant produce in this plot? any help will be happily appreciated!

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

You have just discovered one of our over 400 native species of bees.  These little bees do not sting (as you have found out) and nest in open areas.  They are great pollinators for our plants, including your tomatoes, beans, squash, apple trees, etc.  The new bees are probably hatching now after wintering over.  Hopefully you will be able to save some of these holes to let some of the bees survive.
Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied May 01, 2015, 11:44 PM EDT

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