VIOLET CARPENTER BEE

The Latin name for this bee is Xylocopa violacea.

This is a large bee, with a body length of about 2cm. It is hairy and blackish-purple in colour. The wings have an attractive blue-violet tint.

It flies by day, constantly visiting flowers for nectar, and is on the wing most of the summer.

Although it can sting, the species is generally harmless. The nest is a burrow excavated in wood.